This bill addresses the housing crisis in Washington State by promoting the development of various types of housing, including permanent supportive housing, transitional housing, indoor emergency housing, and indoor emergency shelters. It requires local governments to permit these housing types in urban growth areas, specifically in zones not designated for industrial use, and aims to eliminate regulatory barriers that have delayed their development. Local jurisdictions are prohibited from imposing more restrictive standards on these housing types compared to other residential developments, ensuring they undergo the same development permit and environmental review processes.

Additionally, the bill introduces new regulations for code cities regarding the addition of housing units within existing multifamily buildings. It mandates that if a code city fails to adopt or amend relevant ordinances by a specified deadline, the new requirements will take precedence over conflicting local regulations. The bill prohibits certain restrictions, such as limiting housing unit density and enforcing parking requirements for new units, while also protecting existing buildings from being subjected to current energy codes due to the addition of new units under specific conditions. It clarifies that code cities are not obligated to approve permits if life safety standards cannot be met and defines "existing building" as one that has received a certificate of occupancy at least three years prior to the permit application.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 35.21.683, 35A.21.430, 36.130.020