The bill amends several sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) to streamline local government design review processes and enhance housing development regulations. Key changes include the removal of the term "design review" from the definitions and the introduction of new provisions that limit local governments to requiring only one architectural drawing for housing development permit applications. Additionally, the bill mandates that any design review process must be conducted concurrently with the consolidated review and decision process for project permits. It also specifies that local governments cannot impose more than one public meeting for design review processes.

Furthermore, the bill establishes density requirements for cities based on population size, promoting the development of multiple housing units per lot, particularly near major transit stops. It emphasizes the need for affordable housing by requiring that a certain percentage of units be designated as affordable and maintained as such for a minimum of 50 years. The bill also outlines conditions under which cities can implement density requirements and provides exemptions for certain areas, such as those with critical environmental designations. Overall, the legislation aims to facilitate housing development while ensuring compliance with design standards and affordability criteria.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 36.70B.020, 36.70A.630, 36.70A.635