The bill amends the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) to enhance local government design review processes and clarify definitions related to land use and development. Key changes include a revised definition of "public meeting," which now encompasses architectural control board meetings and community council meetings, replacing the previous term "design review." The definition of "administrative design review" is also updated to specify that it involves a development permit process overseen by the planning director, based on clear and objective design standards, without a public predecision hearing unless mandated by law or if the structure is a designated landmark. Additionally, the bill allows local governments to use public meetings or voluntary review boards for considering variances or design departures.

Furthermore, the bill addresses urban growth and housing development by clarifying that a "pattern of more intensive rural development" does not equate to urban growth and defining terms such as "urban growth areas" and "vulnerable populations." It mandates local governments to apply clear development regulations for housing projects, limits the number of architectural drawings required for permits, and requires concurrent design reviews with project permit reviews. The bill establishes density requirements for cities based on population size, promoting the development of multiple housing units in residential zones near major transit stops, and emphasizes affordable housing by requiring a percentage of units to remain affordable for a specified duration. Exemptions for certain areas with critical environmental designations are also included, along with guidelines for middle housing development to ensure regulations are not more restrictive than those for single-family residences.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 36.70B.020, 36.70A.630, 36.70A.635
Substitute Bill: 36.70B.020, 36.70A.030, 36.70A.630, 36.70A.635