The bill aims to enhance housing options in Washington State by allowing for the administrative splitting of existing residential lots to create new residential lots. It requires cities to develop regulations to facilitate this process, which can be integrated with the review of residential building permits. The legislation specifies conditions for lot splits, including minimum lot sizes, adherence to development standards, and the need for certificates of availability from sewer and water providers. Importantly, it prohibits cities from imposing limits on the total number of dwelling units on the parent or newly created lots that fall below what is allowed by the underlying zoning prior to the split.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws related to city planning and housing capacity, particularly concerning updates to capital facilities plans in light of increased housing demands. It states that cities complying with the new regulations are not required to update their capital facilities plan element until their first periodic comprehensive plan update after June 30, 2034, provided they do not receive a timeline extension. The bill also introduces a provision that renders the act null and void if specific funding is not secured by June 30, 2025, highlighting the necessity of funding for the proposed changes. The legislation has successfully passed both the House and Senate and has received the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
Engrossed Second Substitute: 36.70A.635
Bill as Passed Legislature: 36.70A.635
Session Law: 36.70A.635