Planning Commission unanimously backs recommendation to amend North Bend parking rules

The North Bend Planning Commission on Aug. 5 voted unanimously to forward recommended amendments to NBMC 18.16 (parking regulations) to the city council, with staff and commissioners agreeing to additional edits before formal council review.

Staff opened the public hearing and said, “As of now, we have not received any comments. The SEPA is still open,” noting the commission could make amendments tonight or bring the item back for further review. The package aims primarily to align the municipal code with new state requirements (RCW) affecting residential development while cleaning up several technical provisions.

Major changes highlighted by staff include limits on the number of stalls required for sleeping or co‑living units; a residential parking-space dimension (8 by 20 feet); clarification that existing buildings converted to residential generally would not be forced to add new off‑street parking; and updates to bicycle‑parking standards intended to support the city’s trail expansions. Staff also described separating parking metrics for sports fields versus public swimming pools and simplifying loading‑area requirements for small industrial and multifamily uses.

Commissioners debated finer points — including tandem‑space depth, short‑term versus long‑term bicycle exemptions, and power access for e‑bike charging — but concluded the draft is suitable to send to council with edits. The motion to recommend the amendments passed unanimously. Staff reminded commissioners that SEPA remains open and that written comments received before council consideration could prompt further discussion.