Seattle Could End Restrictions on Co-Living

Seattle city council members will consider a proposal to remove restrictions on co-living developments, known as congregate housing or microhousing.

According to the Capitol Hill Seattle Blog, the city first instituted restrictions a decade ago, limiting microhousing to certain parts of the city. Now, “Proponents of the bill and sponsor Tammy Morales say the changes will help address Seattle’s housing supply while encouraging ‘a relatively lower cost housing option without direct subsidy.’”

City regulations define congregate housing as “a use in which sleeping rooms are independently rented and lockable and provide living and sleeping space, and residents share kitchen facilities and other common elements with other residents in a building.”

Much like college dorms, co-living spaces can lower housing costs for residents, offer more common amenities, and provide access to supportive services and social opportunities.