The bill seeks to create clear and objective standards for residential development in Washington State by mandating that cities and counties adopt straightforward and transparent development regulations. To facilitate this, a new stakeholder work group will be established by the Department of Commerce, comprising representatives from various sectors, including local governments, the building industry, and sustainable land use organizations. By January 1, 2029, all development regulations must adhere to these new standards, minimizing subjective interpretations in permit approvals. The bill also introduces an alternative approval process that allows for non-objective criteria related to aesthetics, while ensuring that applicants can still choose to follow the clear and objective standards.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing definitions to reinforce the need for clear and objective development regulations and introduces new definitions related to rural and urban development. It emphasizes the importance of including vulnerable populations and overburdened communities in the planning process, ensuring their voices are heard in the development of comprehensive plans. Additionally, the bill requires the establishment of a model code by June 30, 2027, focusing on these clear standards, and expands the jurisdiction of the growth management hearings board to address petitions regarding the consistency of development regulations with the new standards, promoting better planning practices across jurisdictions.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 36.70A.030, 36.70A.190
Substitute Bill: 36.70A.030, 36.70A.190
Second Substitute: 36.70A.030, 36.70A.190
Engrossed Second Substitute: 36.70A.030, 36.70A.190