They're a good start. But compared to similar policies in cities like Portland and Vancouver, Seattle's new policies around accessory dwelling units may be lackluster.
Earlier this month, Natalie Bicknell writes, Seattle released an environmental impact statement proposing the removal of code barriers to the construction of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and detached dwelling units (DADUs). "The EIS also proposed size restrictions on construction of new single-family homes. Taken together, the two measures are intended to increase and preserve affordable housing stock throughout the city."
While the measure improves on the city's current policies, Bicknell says it does not favorably compare "to Portland's Residential Infill Project, or the more liberal ADU policies of Vancouver." She cites Dan Bertolet's point-by-point rundown of the Seattle plan's strengths and weaknesses, which include a wild card: a so-called "McMansion ban" on new homes that occupy too much of their lots.
Under the new rules, "new homes could be constructed at a maximum of 2,500 square feet or a floor-area ratio of 0.5, or no more the half the square footage of the lot. Considering that in 2018 the average size of a new single-family home in US is 2,641 square feet, with many new homes exceeding that size, the restriction does represent an improvement."
Portland's size restrictions went further, however, also legalizing housing types like duplexes and corner lot duplexes. In other words, missing middle housing.
See also: Portland Makes ADU Incentives Permanent
FULL STORY: Seattle’s Backyard Cottage Plan Falls Short
The Mall Is Dead — Long Live the Mall
The American shopping mall may be closer to its original vision than ever.
Report: Las Vegas, Houston Top List of Least Affordable Cities
The report assesses the availability of affordable rental units for low-income households.
‘Micro-Apartment’ Trend Underscores Housing Crisis
SROs are making a comeback under a new name as the housing supply remains strained and costs soar.
Indian States Give Women Free Bus Passes
The programs are part of an initiative aimed at helping more women join the workforce and improving access to basic needs.
Study: How to Revitalize Downtown Minneapolis
A proposal calls for a reevaluation of the city’s skyways, a focus on street-facing businesses, and an improved public realm.
Milwaukee Residents Challenge Freeway Expansion
Residents are voicing opposition to a planned expansion of Interstate 94, arguing that the project would eliminate the limited green space in the neighborhood.
City of Yakima
City of Auburn
Baylands Development Inc.
HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research
Mpact Transit + Community
HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research
City of Birmingham, Alabama
City of Laramie, Wyoming
Colorado Department of Local Affairs
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.