The bill aims to reform minimum parking requirements in Washington State to reduce development costs, promote alternative transportation methods, and lessen reliance on automobiles. It establishes specific limits on parking requirements for residential and commercial developments, stating that cities cannot require more than 0.5 parking spaces per residential unit and one parking space per 1,000 square feet of commercial space. Additionally, it exempts various types of buildings and housing, including existing buildings undergoing change of use, affordable housing, and facilities serving specific populations, from minimum parking requirements.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing law to prevent cities with populations over 10,000, located in densely populated counties, from requiring off-street parking for certain types of housing developments within half a mile of transit services. This includes multifamily, middle housing, and accessory dwelling units. The legislation emphasizes that parking needs should be assessed on a case-by-case basis rather than through blanket regulations, thereby allowing for more flexibility in urban planning and development.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 36.70A.620