HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOW 2025-04-28 Item 5A - Ordinance - Residential Conversions Code AmendmentCOUNCIL AGENDA SYNOPSIS
Initials
Meeting Date
Prepared by
Mayor's review
Council review
4/28/2025
NT
5/5/2025
NT
ITEM INFORMATION
ITEM NO.
5.A.
STAFF SPONSOR: NEIL TABOR
ORIGINAL AGENDA DATE:
AGENDA ITEM TITLE Residential Conversions Code Amendment
CATEGORY ® Discussion
Mtt Date 4/28/25
® Motion
Mtg Date 5/5/25
❑ Resolution
Mtg Date
® Ordinance
AItg Date 5/5/25
❑ Bid Award
Mtg. Date
❑ Public Hearing
Mtg Date
❑ Other
Altg Date
SPONSOR ❑ Council ❑ Mayor ❑ Admin Svcs ® DCD ❑ Finance ❑ Fire ❑ P&R ❑ Police ❑ Ply
SPONSOR'S
SUMMARY
Proposed ordinance to amend the Tukwila Muncipal Code to update allowances for
conversion of existing building space to residential, consistent with updates to state law.
REVIEWED BY
❑ Trans&Infrastructure Svcs ❑ Community Svcs/Safety ❑ Finance & Governance ® Planning & Community Dev.
❑ LTAC ❑ Arts Comm. ❑ Parks Comm. ® Planning Comm.
DATE: 1/23/25; 4/14/25 COMMITTEE CHAIR: HEDRICK
RECOMMENDATIONS:
SPONSOR/ADMIN. Department of Community Development
COMMITTEE Unanimous Approval; Forward to 4/28 Committee of the Whole Meeting
COST IMPACT / FUND SOURCE
EXPENDITURE REQUIRED
$o
AMOUNT BUDGETED
$0
APPROPRIATION REQUIRED
$o
Fund Source: N/A
Comments:
MTG. DATE
RECORD OF COUNCIL ACTION
4/28
5/5
MTG. DATE
ATTACHMENTS
4/28
Informational Memorandum dated 4/14/25
Ordinance with Exhibit A
Minutes from the 1/23/25 Planning Commission Meeting
Minutes from the 4/14/25 Planning & Community Development Committee Meeting
1
City of Tukwila
Thomas McLeod, Mayor
INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
TO: Planning and Community Development Committee
CC: Mayor Thomas McLeod
FROM: Nora Gierloff, AICP, DCD Director
BY: Neil Tabor, AICP, Senior Planner
DATE: April 14, 2025
SUBJECT: Proposal to Amend Regulations Relating to Conversion of Existing
Building Space to Residential
ISSUE
The proposed code amendment would bring the City into compliance with upcoming changes in
state law and designate an area for preservation of ground floor commercial space.
BACKGROUND
In the 2023 legislative session, the state legislature passed HB 1042, a bill broadening the
required allowances for conversion of non-residential buildings, or non-residential portions of
buildings, into residential spaces (since codified as RCW 35A.21.440) . The intent of this bill
was to encourage conversion of underutilized office and commercial space into much needed
residential units. The viability of individual buildings being converted may differ, based on
building characteristics. The City is required to adopt code that is compliant with the bill within
six months after the adoption of the comprehensive plan, or by June 30, 2025.
As summarized by the Municipal Research and Services Center (MRSC), some of the key
provisions of the bill requirements include:
• Allowing a 50% density increase above what is permitted in the underlying zone if the
housing is constructed entirely within the envelope of an existing building, provided that
generally applicable health and safety standards can be met;
• Prohibiting the imposition of parking standards on the additional dwelling units;
(however, cities may require retention of existing parking required to satisfy existing
residential parking requirements under local law and for any nonresidential uses that
remain after new units are added);
• Prohibiting imposing additional permitting requirements on use of existing buildings
beyond those applicable to all residential development in the zone, with the exception of
emergency and transitional housing;
• Prohibiting the imposition of additional design standards beyond those generally
applicable to all residential development in the zone;
• Prohibiting requiring that unchanged portions of an existing building used for residential
purposes meet the current energy code; (however, if any portion of an existing building
is converted to new dwelling units, the new units must meet the current energy code);
and
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• Prohibiting denial of a building permit based on certain existing nonconformities unless a
city official with decision -making authority makes findings that the nonconformity is
causing a significant detriment to the surrounding area.
Other key provisions of the bill include:
• Provisions apply to all zones permitting multifamily development, and all structures that
have received a certificate of occupancy at least three years prior.
• Developments along designated "Major Pedestrian Corridors", as defined by the
individual jurisdiction, may restrict conversion of otherwise qualifying ground floor
building space if there is a code requirement for non-residential ground floor space.
PLANNING COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION
A public hearing on the code amendment L25-0002 was held at the January 23rd, 2025,
Planning Commission meeting. Commissioners passed a motion to recommend that the City
Council adopt the code amendments without modifications. A link to the Planning Commission
packet materials on this topic is provided here.
SUMMARY OF PROPOSED CHANGES
Staff proposes adopting a new code section as TMC 18.50.230 "Residential Conversions",
clarifying residential conversion allowances and standards, and adopting a map designating
parcels within a Major Pedestrian Corridor, depicted in Figure 1. Language regarding residential
conversions in zones affected by these provisions are also noted in individual chapters.
A new definition of "Residential Conversion" is also proposed in TMC 18.06 for clarity, as copied
below.
"Residential Conversion" means the conversion of a building, or portion of a building, that is
vacant, or occupied by a nonresidential use, to a residential use.
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Figure 1. Proposed Major Pedestrian Corridor
Major
Pedestrian
Corridor
Pedestrian
Corridor
1/18/2025
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Page 4
ANALYSIS
Preserving ground floor uses and requiring ground floor commercial uses in select residential
development circumstances can provide a variety of public benefits and support fulfillment of
comprehensive plan goals and policies. Ground floor commercial spaces can help foster
placemaking, support denser transit -oriented development, provide spaces for local businesses
and options for local shoppers, amongst other benefits. Many of the comprehensive plan
policies to achieve these goals are focused along the TIB corridor, which is transit rich, but
currently lacks significant walkable commercial opportunities outside of a select few nodes. Staff
anticipates revisiting zoning and development regulations in the future, which will likely include
evaluating ground floor commercial requirements in mixed use developments.
In the interest of preserving the ability to maintain ground floor commercial spaces, staff
proposes to adopt a Major Pedestrian Corridor along Tukwila International Boulevard as
depicted in Figure 1 above.
Staff Report Criteria
TMC 18.82.030 requires that staff reports for proposed amendments to development regulations
address the five listed criteria in this section. As criteria pertain to both privately initiated code
amendment applications and those proposed by staff, some criteria may not be as relevant for
all code amendment proposals. Criteria and staff responses are listed below.
1. An evaluation of the application materials;
Staff Response: Not applicable.
2. Impact upon the Tukwila Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Code;
Staff Response: The proposed code amendment is consistent with the comprehensive plan and
does not require an amendment to the comprehensive plan.
3. Impact upon surrounding properties, if applicable;
Staff Response: Not applicable.
4. Alternatives to the proposed amendment; and
Staff Response: The City is required to update development regulations to comply with RCW
35A.21.440 by no later than six months after adoption of its comprehensive plan periodic
update. The City has flexibility in choosing whether to establish a major pedestrian corridor to
prevent the conversion of required ground floor commercial space and where to locate this
corridor designation(s).
The designation of the major pedestrian corridor along Tukwila International Boulevard was
determined by staff to be a logical area of emphasis for continued transition to a less
automotive -oriented district. If modifications to the initial proposed corridor geography are
desired, this could be addressed in future code amendments.
5. Appropriate code citations and other relevant documents.
Staff Response: Standards specific to conversion of non-residential space to residential, and
associated preemptions such as minimum density allowances, do not currently exist in the
Tukwila Municipal Code. This ordinance proposes to incorporate this recent legislative
requirement.
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Page 5
Decision Criteria
TMC 18.82.020, Decision Criteria provides criteria for the final City Council decision on
proposed code amendments.
Decision criteria are as follows:
1. Is the amendment consistent with the Comprehensive Plan?
2. Does the amendment meet at least one of the following criteria:
a. Eliminates conflicts between TMC and the Comprehensive Plan; or
b. Accomplishes policy directives of the Council or Administration; or
c. Corrects an error or errors in the TMC.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
No direct costs to the City are expected from this code amendment.
REQUESTED ACTION
The Council is being asked to approve an ordinance to adopt a new code section addressing
"Residential Conversions" clarifying residential conversion allowances and standards; adopting
a new definition and other associated code modifications; and adopting a map designating
parcels within a Major Pedestrian Corridor, depicted in Figure 1. The Council is asked to
consider this code amendment at the April 28, 2025, Committee of the Whole meeting, and
subsequent May 5, 2025, Regular meeting.
ATTACHMENTS
A. Ordinance
B. Ordinance Exhibit A
C. 1/23/2025 Planning Commission Minutes
6
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
TUKWILA, WASHINGTON, AMENDING ORDIN ONCE NO. 2741
§3 (PART), AS CODIFIED AT VARIOUr SECTIONS OF
TUKWILA MUNICIPAL CODE (TMC) TITI '. "ZONING"; TO
AMEND REGULATIONS REGAPGING RESIDENTIAL
CONVERSIONS; PROVIDING FO SEVERAL ' ITY; AND
ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE ► E.
WHEREAS, Tukwila Municipal Code "TMC") .pter 18 regulates zoning and land
use in the City of Tukwila; and
WHEREAS, RCW 35A.21.440 equir- dic .ns to adopt compliant regulations
regarding the conversion of resi truct, -s no later than six months after the periodic
update of the comprehensive n; a
WHEREAS, the Tukwila C .rehensive Plan was adopted on December 16, 2024;
and
WHEREAS, reg
be consistent and align with state law; and
WHEREAS, on Jan + 3, 2025, the Tukwila Planning Commission, following
adequate public notice, eld a public hearing to receive testimony concerning
amendments to the Tukwila Municipal Code to establish the Critical Area Designation
Permit, and at that meeting adopted a motion recommending that the City Council
approve the proposed changes; and
WHEREAS, on January 24, 2025, the City's State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA)
Responsible Official issued a Determination of Non -Significance on the proposed
amendments; and
WHEREAS, on May 5, 2025, after considering the analysis and proposed code
amendments prepared by City Staff, the recommendation from the Planning Commission,
and the public comments received, the City Council desire to adopt code amendments as
set forth herein.
2025 Legislation: Residential Conversions
Version: 4/9/25
Staff: N. Tabor
Page 1 of 12
7
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA,
WASHINGTON, HEREBY ORDAINS AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. Adoption of Findings of Fact. The City Council finds as follows:
A. The above recitals, set forth as "WHEREAS" clauses, are hereby adopted as
Findings of Fact in support of the adoption of this ordinance.
B. The amendments that are established below comply with the requirements of the
Washington State Growth Management Act and the Tukwila Municipal Code.
Section 2. Regulations Established. TMC Section 18.06.686, "Residential
Conversion" is hereby established as follows:
18.06.686 Residential Conversion
"Residential Conversion" means the conversion o . ► «'nq, or portion of a building,
that is vacant, or occupied by a nonresidential use, . resi.. al use.
Section 3. Ordinance No. 2741 §3 (part), a
Development Standards," is hereby amended to
18.14.070 Basic Development Sta
Development within the High -Dens
following listed and referenced sj ds:
HDR
tTMC S-ction 18.14.070, "Basic
follows:
al District shall conform to the
ENT STANDARDS
N _.......,
Lot area, minimum
9,600 sq. ft. (Applied to parent lot
for townhouse subdivisions)
Lot area per unit
(multi -family, except
senior citizen housing)
2,000 sq. ft. (For townhouses the
density shall be calculated based on
one unit per 2000 sq. ft. of parent lot area. The "unit
lot" area shall be allowed to include the common
access easements.)
Average lot width
(min. 20 ft. street frontage width), minimum
60 feet
(Applied to parent lot
for townhouse subdivisions)
Setbacks, minimum: Applied to
parent lot for townhouse subdivisions
• Front - 1st floor
15 feet
• Front - 2nd floor
20 feet
•Front - 3rd floor
30 feet (20 feet for townhouses)
•Front— 4th floor
45 feet (20 feet for townhouses)
• Second front - 1st floor
7.5 feet
• Second front - 2nd floor
10 feet
• Second front - 3rd floor
15 feet (10 feet for townhouses)
• Second front — 4th floor
22.5 feet (10 feet for townhouses)
• Sides - 1st floor
10 feet
2025 Legislation: Residential Conversions
Version: 4/9/25
Staff: N. Tabor
Page 2 of 12
8
• Sides - 2nd floor
20 feet
(10 feet for townhouses
unless adjacent to LDR)
• Sides - 3rd floor
20 feet
(30 feet if adjacent to LDR)
(10 feet for townhouses
unless adjacent to LDR)
• Sides — 4th floor
30 feet
(20 feet for townhouses
unless adjacent to LDR)
• Rear - 1st floor
10 feet
• Rear - 2nd floor
20 feet
(10 feet for townhouses
unless adjacent to LDR)
• Rear - 3rd floor
20 feet
(30 feet if adjacent to LDR;
10 feet for townhouses
unless adjacent to LDR)
• Rear — 4th floor
30 feet
(20 feet for townhouses
unless adjacent to LDR)
Refer to TMC 18.52, "Landscape Requirements," Table or eter and parking lot landscaping
requirements.
Townhouse building separation, minimum
• 1 and 2 story buildings 10 feet
• 3 and 4 story buildings 20 feet
Height, maximum 45 feet
Development area coverage ° maximum (except senior citizen housing), (75%
for townhouses)
Recreation space 400 sq. ft. per dwelling unit
(1,000 sq. ft. min.)
Recreation space, 100 sq. ft. per dwelling unit
senior citizen housin.
Off-street parking:
•Residential (exceptseni. -, .using)
See TMC 18.56,
Off-street Parking & Loading Regulations.
•Accessory dwelling unit
See TMC 18.50.220
• Other uses, including senior citizen housing
See TMC 18.56,
Off-street Parking & Loading Regulations
Conversion to Residential
See TMC 18.50.230, Residential Conversions
Performance Standards: Use, activity and operations within a structure or a site shall comply with (1)
standards adopted by the Puget Sound Air Pollution Control Agency for odor, dust, smoke and other
airborne pollutants, (2) TMC 8.22, "Noise", and, (3) adopted State and Federal standards for water
quality and hazardous materials. In addition, all development subject to the requirements of the State
Environmental Policy Act, RCW 43.21C, shall be evaluated to determine whether adverse
environmental impacts have been adequately mitigated.
2025 Legislation: Residential Conversions
Version: 4/9/25
Staff: N. Tabor
Page 3 of 12
9
Section 4. Ordinance No. 2741 §3 (part), as codified at TMC Section 18.16.080, "Basic
Development Standards," is hereby amended to read as follows:
18.16.080 Basic Development Standards
Development within the Mixed Use Office District shall conform to the following listed
and referenced standards. In the Tukwila International Boulevard corridor, there are
circumstances under which these basic standards may be waived (see TMC 18.60.020).
MUO BASIC DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
Lot area per unit,
multi -family (except senior citizen housing),
minimum
3,000 sq. ft.
Setbacks to yards, minimum:
• Front
• Second front
• Sides
• Sides, if any portion of the yard is within 50 feet of LDR R, HDR
• Rear
• Rear, if any portion of the yard is within 50 feet of MD DR
Refer to TMC 18.52, "Landscape Requirements," Table rimeter and parking lot landscaping
requirements.
Height, maximumleilliiiiiilliPP
Recreation space
Recreation space,
senior citizen housing
Off-street parking:
• Residential (except senior citiz ing)
See TMC 18.56,
Off street Parking & Loading Regulations
• Office, minimum
3 per 1,000 sq. ft.
usable floor area
• Retail, minimum
2.5 per 1,000 sq. ft.
usable floor area
• Other uses, including sen zen housing
See TMC 18.56, Off-street Parking & Loading
Regulations
Conversion to Residential
See TMC 18.50.230, Residential Conversions
Performance Standards: Use, activity and operations within a structure or a site shall comply with (1)
standards adopted by the Puget Sound Air Pollution Control Agency for odor, dust, smoke and other
airborne pollutants, (2) TMC 8.22, "Noise", and, (3) adopted State and Federal standards for water
quality and hazardous materials. In addition, all development subject to the requirements of the State
Environmental Policy Act, RCW 43.21C, shall be evaluated to determine whether adverse
environmental impacts have been adequately mitigated.
2025 Legislation: Residential Conversions
Version: 4/9/25
Staff: N. Tabor
Page 4 of 12
10
Section 5. Ordinance No. 2741 §3 (part), as codified at TMC Section 18.20.080, "Basic
Development Standards," is hereby amended to read as follows:
18.20.080 Basic Development Standards
Development within the Residential Commercial Center District shall conform to the
following listed and referenced standards:
RCC BASIC DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
Lot area, minimum
5,000 sq. ft.
Lot area per unit (multi -family), minimum
3,000 sq. ft.
Setbacks to yards, minimum:
• Front
20 feet
• Second front
10 feet
• Sides
5 feet
• Sides, if any portion of the yard is within 50
feet of LDR, MDR, HDR
10 feet
• Rear
10 feet
Refer to TMC Chapter 18.52, "Landscape Requirements " ble A, perimeter and parking lot
landscaping requirements.
Height, maximum
3 stories or 35 feet
Recreation space
200 sq. ft. per dwelling unit
(1,000 sq. ft. min.)
Off-street parking:
• Residential See TMC Chapter 18.56,
• street Parking & Loading Regulations
• Office, minimum14P°' 3 per 1,000 sq. ft.
usable floor area
• Retail, minimum 2.5 per 1,000 sq. ft.
usable floor area
• Other uses See TMC Chapter 18.56, Off-street Parking &
Loading Regulations
Conversion to Reside See TMC 18.50.230, Residential Conversions
Performance Stand. Use, act an. .perations
standards adopted b Puget S. d Air Pollution
airborne pollutants, (2) Chap 8.22, "Noise",
water quality and hazardo Is. In addition,
State Environmental Policy - , RCW 43.21C,
environmental impacts have been adequately mitigated.
within a structure or a site shall comply with (1)
Control Agency for odor, dust, smoke and other
and (3) adopted State and Federal standards for
all development subject to the requirements of the
shall be evaluated to determine whether adverse
Section 6. Ordinance No. 2741 §3 (part), as codified at TMC Section 18.22.080, "Basic
Development Standards," is hereby amended to read as follows:
18.22.080 Basic Development Standards
Development within the Neighborhood Commercial Center District shall conform to
the following listed and referenced standards: In the Tukwila International Boulevard
corridor, there are circumstances under which these basic standards may be waived (see
TMC 18.60.020).
2025 Legislation: Residential Conversions
Version: 4/9/25
Staff: N. Tabor
Page 5 of 12
11
NCC BASIC DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
Lot area per unit for senior citizen housing,
minimum
726 sq. ft. (senior housing)
Setbacks to yards, minimum:
• Front
6 feet (12 feet if located along
Tukwila International Blvd. S.)
• Second front
5 feet
• Sides
10 feet
• Sides, if any portion of the yard is within 50
feet of LDR, MDR, HDR
Ratio of 1.5:1 setback
(for every 1.5 feet of bldg. height, setback 1 foot
from property line) min. of 10 feet and a max. of 20
feet
• Rear
10 feet
• Rear, if any portion of the yard is within 50
feet of LDR, MDR, HDR
Ratio of 1.5:1 setback
(for every 1.5 feet of bldg. height, setback 1 foot
from property line in. of 10 feet and a max. of 20
feet
Refer to TMC 18.52, "Landscape Requirements," Table A, for ter and parking lot landscaping
requirements.
Height, maximum
3 stories or 35 feet
(4 es or 45 in the NCC of
the Tu International Boulevard,
if ed use with a residential
and co cial component)
Recreation space 200 sq. ft. per dwelling unit
•. ft. .)
Recreation space, 100 sq. ft. per dwelling unit
No,
senior citizen housing
Off-street parking:
•Residential (except senior cit. housi' /
See TMC 18.56, Off-street Parking/Loading
Regulations
• Office
3 per 1,000 sq. ft.
usable floor area
• Retail
2.5 per 1,000 sq. ft.
usable floor area
• Manufacturing
1 per 1,000 sq. ft.
usable floor area minimum
• Warehousing
1 per 2,000 sq. ft.
usable floor area minimum
• Other uses, including senior citizen housing
See TMC 18.56, Off-street
Parking & Loading Regulations
Conversion to Residential
See TMC 18.50.230, Residential Conversions
Performance Standards: Use, activity and operations within a structure or a site shall comply with (1)
standards adopted by the Puget Sound Air Pollution Control Agency for odor, dust, smoke and other
airborne pollutants, (2) TMC 8.22, "Noise", and, (3) adopted State and Federal standards for water
quality and hazardous materials. In addition, all development subject to the requirements of the State
Environmental Policy Act, RCW 43.21C, shall be evaluated to determine whether adverse
environmental impacts have been adequately mitigated.
2025 Legislation: Residential Conversions
Version: 4/9/25
Staff: N. Tabor
Page 6 of 12
12
Section 7. Ordinance No. 2741 §3 (part), as codified at TMC Section 18.24.080, "Basic
Development Standards", is hereby amended to read as follows:
18.24.080 Basic Development Standards
Development within the Regional Commercial district shall conform to the following
listed and referenced standards. In the Tukwila International Boulevard corridor, there are
circumstances under which these basic standards may be waived (see TMC 18.60.020).
RC BASIC DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
Lot area per unit (multifamily, except senior
citizen housing), minimum
Setbacks to yards, minimum:
• Front
• Second front
• Sides
• Sides, if any portion of the yard is within 50
feet of LDR, MDR, HDR
When 3 or more stories
• Rear
• Rear, if any portion of the yard is within 50 f
of LDR, MDR, HDR
When 3 or more stories
Refer to TMC 18.52, "Landscape ements,
requirements.
Height, maximum
Recreation space
Recreation space, senior L 'zen homing
2,000 sq. ft.
Where height limit is 6 stories: 622 sq. ft. Where
height limit is 10 stories: 512 sq. ft.
20 feet
10 feet
10 feet
Ratio of 1.5:1 setback
(for every 1.5 feet of bldg.
iLght, setback 1 foot from
property line) min. of 10
feet and a max. of 30 feet
30 feet
10 feet
Ratio of 1.5:1 setback
(for every 1.5 feet of bldg.
height, setback 1 foot from
property line) min. of 10
feet and a max. of 30 feet
30 feet
able A, for perimeter and parking lot landscaping
3 stories or 35 feet
200 sq. ft. per dwelling unit
(1,000 sq. ft. min.)
100 sq. ft. per dwelling unit
Off-street parking:
• Residential (except senior citizen housing)
• Office
• Retail
See TMC 18.56, Off street Parking/Loading
Regulations
3 per 1,000 sq. ft. usable floor area minimum
2.5 per 1,000 sq. ft. usable floor area
minimum
• Manufacturing
• Warehousing
1 per 1,000 sq. ft. usable floor area minimum
1 per 2,000 sq. ft. usable floor area minimum
• Other uses, including senior citizen housing See TMC 18.56, Off-street Parking & Loading
Regulations
MC 18.50.230,
Performance Standards: Use, activity and operations within a structure or a site shall comply with (1)
standards adopted by the Puget Sound Air Pollution Control Agency for odor, dust, smoke and other
airborne pollutants, (2) TMC 8.22, "Noise", and, (3) adopted State and Federal standards for water
quality and hazardous materials. In addition, all development subject to the requirements of the State
2025 Legislation: Residential Conversions
Version: 4/9/25
Staff: N. Tabor
Page 7 of 12
13
Environmental Policy Act, RCW 43.21 C, shall be evaluated to determine whether adverse
environmental impacts have been adequately mitigated.
Section 8. Ordinance No. 2741 §3 (part), as codified at TMC Section 18.26.080, "Basic
Development Standards," is hereby amended to read as follows:
18.26.080 Basic Development Standards
Development within the Regional Commercial Mixed Use District shall conform to the
following listed and referenced standards:
RCM BASIC DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
Lot area per unit (multifamily, except senior
citizen housing), minimum
3,000 ft
Setbacks to yards, minimum:
• Front
20 feet
• Second front
10 feet
• Sides
10 feet
• Sides, if any portion of the yard is within 50 feet of LDR R, HDR
1st Floor
10 feet
2nd Floor
20 feet
3rd Floor
30 feet
• Rear 10 feet
• Rear, if any portion of the yard is within 50 fe - , 4 1 R, R
1st Floor 10 feet
2nd Floor , v 20 feet
3rd Floor 30 feet
Refer to TMC Chapter 18.52, " dsca• Requi
landscaping requirements.
ents," Table A, for perimeter and parking lot
Height, maximum
3 stories or 35 feet
Recreation space
200 sq. ft. per dwelling unit
(1,000 sq. ft. min.)
Recreation space, sei r citizen hot, ng
100 sq. ft. per dwelling unit
Off-street parking:
• Residential (except senior a. , ) housing)
See TMC 18.56, Off street Parking/Loading
Regulations
• Office
3 per 1,000 sq. ft. usable floor area minimum
• Retail
2.5 per 1,000 sq. ft. usable floor area minimum
• Manufacturing
1 per 1,000 sq. ft. usable floor area minimum
• Warehousing
1 per 2,000 sq. ft. usable floor area minimum
• Other uses, including senior citizen housing
See TMC 18.56, Off-street Parking & Loading
Regulations
Conversion to Residential
.. rMC 18.50.230, Residential Conversions
Performance Standards: Use, activity and operations within a structure or a site shall comply with (1)
standards adopted by the Puget Sound Air Pollution Control Agency for odor, dust, smoke and other
airborne pollutants, (2) TMC 8.22, "Noise", and, (3) adopted State and Federal standards for water
quality and hazardous materials. In addition, all development subject to the requirements of the State
Environmental Policy Act, RCW 43.21 C, shall be evaluated to determine whether adverse
environmental impacts have been adequately mitigated.
2025 Legislation: Residential Conversions
Version: 4/9/25
Staff: N. Tabor
Page 8 of 12
14
Section 9. Ordinance No. 2741 §3 (part), as codified at TMC Section 18.40.080, "Basic
Development Standards", is hereby amended to read as follows:
18.40.080 Basic Development Standards
Development within the Tukwila Valley South District shall conform to the following
listed and referenced standards:
TVS BASIC DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
Lot area per unit (multifamily, except senior
citizen housing), minimum
2,000 sq. ft.
Setbacks to yards, minimum:
• Front
25 feet
• Second front
12.5 feet
• Sides
5 feet
• Sides, if any portion of the yard is within 50 feet of LDR, MDR, HD
1st Floor
10 feet
2nd Floor
20 feet
3rd Floor
30 feet
• Rear
5 feet
• Rear, if any portion of the yard is within 50 feet of LD R, R
1st Floor
10 feet
2nd Floor
20 feet
3rd Floor
30 feet
Refer to TMC 18.52, "Landscape Requireme A, f rimeter and parking lot landscaping
requirements.
Height, maximum 115 feet
Recreation space
200 sq. ft. per dwelling unit
(1,000 sq. ft. min.)
Recreation space, senior citizen •
100 sq. ft. per dwelling unit
Off-street parking:
• Residential (excepts: •r citiz- • •u
See TMC 18.56, Off street Parking/Loading
Regulations
• Office
3 per 1,000 sq. ft. usable floor area minimum
• Retail
4 per 1,000 sq. ft. usable floor area minimum
• Manufacturing
1 per 1,000 sq. ft. usable floor area minimum
• Warehousing
1 per 2,000 sq. ft. usable floor area minimum
• Other uses, including senior citizen housing
See TMC 18.56, Off-street
Parking & Loading Regulations
Conversion to Residential
See TMC 18.50.230, Residential Conversions
Performance Standards: Use, activity and operat'ons within a structure or a site shall comply with (1)
standards adopted by the Puget Sound Air Pollution Control Agency for odor, dust, smoke and other
airborne pollutants, (2) TMC 8.22, "Noise", and, (3) adopted State and Federal standards for water
quality and hazardous materials. In addition, all development subject to the requirements of the State
Environmental Policy Act, RCW 43.21C, shall be evaluated to determine whether adverse
environmental impacts have been adequately mitigated.
Section 10. Ordinance No. 2741 §3 (part), as codified at TMC Section 18.41.090,
"Basic Development Standards," Table 18.41.090, "Tukwila South Overlay Residential
Development Standards," is hereby amended to read as follows:
2025 Legislation: Residential Conversions
Version: 4/9/25
Staff: N. Tabor
Page 9 of 12
15
Table 18.41.090
Tukwila South Overlay Residential Development Standards
Standard
TSO
Townhouses
& Low-rise
(3 stories or
less)
TSO
Mid -rise
(4-7
stories)
TSO
High-rise
(8 or more
stories)
Setbacks/yards, minimum (feet)
Front'
Arterial streets
15
15
15
All other streets
10
10
10
Side2
Up to 3rd story
5
53
53
4th story and above
n/a
154
154
Rear3
Up to 3rd story
5
53
53
4th story and above
n/a
154
154
1 In the event modification is pursued under TMC 18.41 , front setbacks
may be reduced to no less than 5 feet.
2 Structures or portions of structures containing m am elling units that
have solar access only from a side or rear set. -facing ow(s) must
be set back at least 15 feet from side and r_ •roperty lines. ctures
must also maintain at least 15 feet of se • ion fro, adjacent cture
elevations that provide the only solar a. .s for . • lb -family dwelling unit.
See the Tukwila South Residential Guide . graphic example.
3 When adjacent to a townhouse, the minimu -tback is 15 feet.
4 When adjacent to a townhous tback fo ions of a structure taller
than 35 feet must increase by 1 ad. •al 1 foot in building
height.
Building height, maximu eet)
Building Height 45
85
125
157111111t
StandarO•O
nhouses
& Low-rise
(3 stories or
less)
TSO
Mid -rise
(4-7
stories)
TSO
High-rise
(8 or more
stories)
Outdo • ' • hting heig maximum (feet)
Light pol- ' parking -as
20
20
20
Light poles . . • p: trian
walkways, trai as, building
entries, and othe pedestrian -
oriented areas
12
12
12
Building wall -mounted lighting
15
15
15
Building mounted lights fully
recessed into the underside of a
ceiling, soffit, or overhang
No limit
No limit
No limit
Building length, maximum (feet)
Maximum building length
200
200
200
Recreation space per unit, minimum square footage (see TMC 18.41.090.3
for more information)''$
Recreation space
Residential development must provide
on -sites and off-site10 recreation space at
the following standard:
• 200 square feet total.
0 75 square feet per unit, on -site.
0 125 square feet per unit, off -site.
2025 Legislation: Residential Conversions
Version: 4/9/25
Staff: N. Tabor
Page 10 of 12
16
Senior citizen housing must provide 100 square feet of recreation space per
unit.
8 Developments with 10 or more dwelling units must provide a children's play
area in the on -site recreation space. A children's play area is not required
for senior citizen housing or if the proposed structure or related
development project is within 1/4 mile, measured along constructed
sidewalks and/or trails of the perimeter, of a recreation facility for children
that is open to residents of the proposed structure.
9 Recreation area provided on -site must be functional space for active and
passive recreation purposes and located within the same parcel or tract as
the proposed development.
'o The Director may approve the required off -site recreation area to be located
on -site provided that the recreation space meets the design guidelines set
forth in this chapter. If off -site recreation space is approved to be located
on -site, that space must be active outdoor recreation space.
Parking spaces per dwelling unit, minimum
Studio
1
1
1
1-bedroom
1
1
1
2-bedroom
1.5
1.5
3-bedroom
2
2
Conversion to Residential
MC 18.50.230,
aside Conversions
Section 11. Regulations Established. T► Sec ' 18.50.230, "Residential
Conversions," is hereby established to read as fo
18.50.230 Residential Conversions
A. Applicability.
1. Conversion of non
additional standards listed in
a. Buildings w
three years prior;
to residential units is subject to
). These standards do not apply to:
eived certificate of occupancy at least
b. C• version t• me -ncy shelters, transitional housing, emergency
housing or germane .upporti housing;
c. Groun• • .pace required as part of a mixed use development
adjacent to designated maj•r pedestrian corridors (figure 61); and
d. Buildings within zoning districts where residential development is not
permitted.
B. Additional Standards.
1. Density: In zoning districts with a maximum unit density standard,
converted buildings may exceed the density limit by up to 50%.
2. Parking: No additional parking is required for conversion of non-residential
space to residential use. Parking shall not be removed from the site if it contains, or
would contain after removal, fewer parking stalls than would otherwise be required for
the site's uses.
2025 Legislation: Residential Conversions
Version: 4/9/25
Staff: N. Tabor
Page 11 of 12
17
3. Design: No additional exterior design or architectural requirements shall be
required beyond those deemed by the Director to be necessary for health and safety.
4. Nonconformity: No nonconforming aspects of the existing building shall
prevent new residential conversions, unless the Director determines the nonconformity
is causing a significant detriment to the surrounding area. If determined to be the case,
the decision shall be provided with written findings.
Section 12. TMC Figure 18-61, "Major Pedestrian Corridor," is hereby established as
seen in Exhibit A.
Section 13. Corrections by City Clerk or Code Reviser Authorized. Upon
approval of the City Attorney, the City Clerk and the code reviser are authorized to make
necessary corrections to this ordinance, including the c•rrection of clerical errors;
references to other local, state or federal laws, codes, rul- •r regulations; or ordinance
numbering and section/subsection numbering.
Section 14. Severability. If any section, subs on, par. - • h, sentence, clause or
phrase of this ordinance or its application to an rson or situa should be held to be
invalid or unconstitutional for any reason b co of competent jurisdiction, such
invalidity or unconstitutionality shall not affect validity or constitutionality of the
remaining portions of this ordinance or i • •licati any other person or situation.
Section 15. Effective Date. This ord mmary thereof shall be published
in the official newspaper of the ' . nd take effect and be in full force five days
after passage and publication pro ed b .w.
PASSED BY THE CITY • E CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON, at
a Regular Meeting the day of , 2025.
ATTEST/AUTHEN
Andy Youn-Barnett, CMC, City Clerk Thomas McLeod, Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM BY:
Office of the City Attorney
Filed with the City Clerk:
Passed by the City Council:
Published:
Effective Date:
Ordinance Number:
Exhibit A: Figure 18-61, "Major Pedestrian Corridor"
2025 Legislation: Residential Conversions
Version: 4/9/25
Staff: N. Tabor
Page 12 of 12
18
Exhibit A, Figure 61 Major Pedestrian Corridor
13°th
gf f }id
142ndx;...
Major
Pedestrian
Corridor
Pedestrian
Corridor
1/18/2025
19
Thomas McLeod, Mayor
Department of Community Development - No Gierlo ; MCP, Director
CITY OF TUKWILA
PLANNING COMMISSION (PC)
MINUTES
Date: January 23, 2025
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Location: Hybrid Meeting - via Microsoft Teams / Public, In -Person Attendance,
Council Chambers, 6200 Southcenter Blvd., Tukwila, WA 98188
L Call to Order
Chair Probst called the Tukwila PC meeting to order at 6:35 p.m.
II. Roll Call
The PC Secretary took roll call.
Present: Chair Martin Probst; Vice Chair Ann Durant; Commissioners Louise
Strander, Alex Kaehler, Richard McLeland Wieser, and Jacob Halverson
Excused Absence: Commissioner Jane Ho
Staff: Director Nora Gierloff, American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP), Department of
Community Development (DCD); Long Range Planning Manager Nancy Eklund, AICP,
DCD; Development Supervisor Max Baker, AICP, DCD; Senior Planner Neil Tabor, AICP,
DCD; and PC Secretary Wynetta Bivens, DCD
III. Amendment of the Agenda
No changes to the agenda were requested.
IV. Approval of Minutes
Commissioner Halverson moved to adopt the 12/12/24 Minutes. Commissioner Durant
seconded the motion. Commissioner Kaehler recused himself due to absence. Motion
carried.
V. Written General Public Comments
No submittals.
VI. Old Business
None
Tukwila City Hall • 6200 Southcenter Boulevard • Tukwila; WA 98188 • 206-433'-1800 • Website: TukwilaWA.gov
20
Planning Commission Minutes
1/23/25
Page 2
VII. New Business
PUBLIC HEARING
1. Shelter, Transitional, Emergency, Permanent (STEP) Housing Changes
FILE NUMBER: L24-0026, E25-0001
PURPOSE: Code amendment to comply with state law.
LOCATION: Non -Project Action/Citywide
Senior Planner Neil Tabor gave the presentation for staff. He provided background on STEP Housing
and the purpose of the public hearing. He said that legislature narrowed restrictions for the STEP
Housing types, which resulted in the allocation of certain housing targets. The City of Tukwila
previously adopted code amendments to recognize the STEP Housing types. In 2021, the State
legislature passed HB 1220 which sets requirements for STEP Housing. The following housing types are
not included:
• Temporary Encampments
• Tiny Home Villages
• Group Homes
• Oxford Homes/Recovery Residence
• Assisted Living Facility
• Adult Family Homes
• Senior Living
• Traditional Income -Restricted Housing
Staff noted that the State, Puget Sound Regional Council, and Countywide King County each
commented that the city's current development regulations do not meet requirements. Staff went over the
proposed standards and walked through the STEP housing requirements in which the City of Tukwila is
not in compliance.
To meet state law requirements and provide capacity to site the city's allotted amount of STEP Housing,
while maintaining reasonable occupancy and spacing requirements, staff propose to amend TMC
18.50.250, 18.50.260 and Table 18-2 Tukwila Urban Center (TUC) Land Uses Allowed by District
Staff addressed clarifying questions from the PC.
Recommendation
Staff are requesting that the Planning Commission forward a recommendation for adoption of the draft
code amendments to the City Council (CC) for their review.
Public Hearing
Chair Probst opened the public hearing.
Staff noted that there were no public hearing comments letters received.
There was no public testimony.
Chair Probst closed the public hearing.
2
Phone: 206-433-1800 • Email: Mayor@TukwilaWA.gov • Website: TukwilaWA.gov
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Planning Commission Minutes
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Page 3
Deliberations/Motion
There was no deliberation.
Commissioner Halverson moved to adopt the staff's recommendation and forward them to the CC for
their review. Commissioner Durant seconded the motion. Motion carried.
PUBLIC HEARING
2. Phased Binding Site Improvement Plans (BSIP)
FILE NUMBER: L25-0001, E25-0002
PURPOSE: Code amendment to remove development agreement requirement.
LOCATION: Non -Project Action/Citywide
Senior Planner Neil Tabor gave the presentation for staff. He provided background on the proposed.
BSIPs are plans used to provide flexibility for sale of property within a larger development. These
developments often rely on shared features within the larger site, such as: Parking; access points;
landscaping; utilities; refuse collection areas; etc. Phased BSIPs improvement plans and proposals to
develop in phases are required to enter into a development agreement in addition to completing the
BSIP.
The requirement for phased BSIPs to execute a development agreement is listed in the Tukwila
Municipal Code (TMC) 17.16.030(C) Preliminary Binding Site Improvement Plan (BSIP) approval,
approval Criteria.
Staff proposed removing the sole provision requiring the execution of a development agreement with
phased BSIPs. References requiring consistency with approvals and options to apply conditions and
limitations for phased BSIPs are already present in other sections of TMC 17.16 and throughout the
TMC.
Staff addressed clarifying questions from the PC.
Recommendation
Staff are requesting that the Planning Commission forward a recommendation for the adoption of the
draft code amendments to the CC for their review.
Public Hearing
A public hearing comment letter was received from Sam Pace, Housing Specialist.
Seattle King County REALTORS, on January 22, 2025, which was distributed to the PC on January 22,
2025.
Chair Probst opened the public hearing.
There was no public testimony.
Chair Probst closed the public hearing.
Deliberations/Motion
There was no deliberation.
Phone: 206-433-1800 • Email: Mayor@TukwilaWA.gov • Website: TukwilaWA.gov
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Planning Commission Minutes
1/23/25
Page 4
Commissioner Durant moved to adopt the staff's recommendations and forward it to the CC for their
review. Commissioner McLeland Wieser seconded the motion. Motion carried.
PUBLIC HEARING
3. Townhouses in the TUC
FILE NUMBER: L25-0003, E25-0004
PURPOSE: Code amendment to update residential allowances.
LOCATION: Non -Project Action/Citywide
Senior Planner Neil Tabor gave the presentation for staff. He provided background on the proposed. He
stated this item is on townhouse allowances in the TUC, which is a regional center designated with the
Puget Sound Regional Council for future growth, capitalizing on transit infrastructure to reduce car
dependency. This center designation under the Regional Growth Strategy makes this area eligible for
additional funding that helps them transition into denser, transit -oriented development over time. It
covers Pierce, Snohomish, King, and Kitsap Counties. Within these counties, centers can be designated
where high capacity transit exists, encouraging the greater use of public transportation.
Part of the requirement for a center is that it plans for a minimum of 45 "activity units" per acre.
Staff proposes removing townhouses from the list of allowed dwelling types in table 18-2, affecting the
TUC Regional Center, Transit Oriented Development, Pond and portions of the Work Place Zoning
Districts.
Staff are requesting that the PC forward a recommendation for the adoption of the proposed redlined
language to the CC for their further review and adoption.
Staff addressed clarifying questions from the PC.
Commissioner Halverson stated that he would propose an amendment, stating he is against removing
townhomes from the use in the TUC.
Commissioner Durant stated it was mentioned in the staff background report that regional growth
strategy designation makes the area eligible for additional funding. She asked if townhomes are not
stricken and allow zoning that wouldn't meet the 45 activity units whether the City of Tukwila would be
ineligible for the funding or would it be less accessible to the city. She said the change makes sense to
her. Mr. Tabor stated individual use allowances would be unlikely to eliminate funding eligibility, but
regulations should be consistent with goals for the center.
Commissioner Halverson inquired whether there is any concept to build small townhouse -style
residential.
Staff said they identified this as something that is inconsistent with the overall goals, which is why they
are proposing it.
Phone: 206-433-1800 • Email: Mayor@TukwilaWA.gov • Website: TukwilaWA.gov
23
Planning Commission Minutes
1/23/25
Page 5
Staff proposes removing townhouses from the list of allowed dwelling types in table 18-2, affecting the
Tukwila Urban Center (TUC) Regional Center, Transit Oriented Development, Pond and portions of the
Work Place Zoning Districts.
There was extensive discussion around this subject.
Recommendation
Staff are requesting that the Planning Commission forward a recommendation for the adoption of the
draft code amendments to the CC for their review.
Public Hearing
Chair Probst opened the public hearing
Staff noted that there were no public hearing comments letters received.
There was no public testimony
Chair Probst closed the public hearing
Deliberations/Motion
There was no deliberation.
Commissioner Halverson moved to amend staff's recommendation, to change townhomes to an
accessory use in the Tukwila Urban Center instead of striking them. Commissioner Strander seconded
the motion. There was a split decision.
Commissioner Halverson moved to forward the split recommendation to the CC for their review.
Commissioner Stander seconded the motion. Motion carried.
Staff asked for clarification on how the PC would like to foiuiat the suggested amendment to change
Townhouses to an accessory use. The PC deferred the decision to staff.
PUBLIC HEARING
4. Residential Conversions
FILE NUMBER: L25-0002, E25-0003
PURPOSE: Code amendment to comply with changes in state law.
LOCATION: Non -Project Action
Senior Planner Neil Tabor gave the presentation for staff. He provided background on the proposed
amendment. He stated that in the 2023 legislative session, HB 1042 passed and broadened allowances
for conversions of non-residential to residential spaces. Per the Municipal Research and Services Center
(MRSC) he went over several of the key provisions of the requirements. He said the intent with this code
amendment is to provide consistency with the state law. Also, to provide future allowances that the city
can still maintain ground floor commercial space that is required in new use development and identified
areas.
Phone: 206-433-1800 • Email: Mayor@TukwilaWA.gov • Website: TukwilaWA.gov
24
5
Planning Commission Minutes
1/23/25
Page 6
In the interest in preserving the ability to maintain ground floor commercial space staff propose to adopt
a major pedestrian corridor along Tukwila International Boulevard (TIB).
Staff proposed adopting a new code section within the Tukwila Municipal Code (TMC). TMC 18.50.230
for Residential Conversion.
Staff addressed clarifying questions from the PC.
Recommendation
Staff are requesting that the Planning Commission forward a recommendation for the adoption of the
draft code amendments to the CC for their review.
Public Hearing
Chair Probst opened the public hearing.
Staff noted that there were no public hearing comments letters received.
There was no public testimony.
Chair Probst closed the public hearing.
Deliberations/Motion
There was no deliberation.
Commissioner McLeland Wieser moved to adopt staff's recommendations to adopt the draft code
amendments and forward them to the PC for their review. Commissioner Durant seconded the motion.
Commissioner Halverson abstained. Motion carried.
VIII. Director's Report
Coming up: (may meet more than once a month some months)
February - Additional Middle Housing (MH) presentation and discussion. Review of mapping
and density standards. Intro to design and road standards.
March - Public Hearing #1 on MH, focusing on general development regulations and consistency.
April - Public Hearing #2 on MH focusing on objective design standards and road standards.
Move the full package to the City Council, aiming for adoption by the end of June.
Quick Quack Carwash has received design review approval. Now they are working on some other
issues.
IX. Adjournment
Commissioner McLeland Wieser moved to adjourn. Commissioner. Durant seconded the motion.
Adjourned at: 7:59 p.m.
Submitted by: Wynetta Bivens
PC Secretary
6
Phone: 206-433-1800 • Email: Mayor@TukwilaWA.gov • Website: TukwilaWA.gov
25
City of Tukwila
City Council Planning & Community Development Committee
Meeting Minutes
April 14, 2025, 5:30 p.m. - Hybrid Meeting; City Council Conference Room & MS Teams
Councilmembers Present: Hannah Hedrick, Chair; Jovita McConnell, Verna Seal
Staff Present: Nora Gierloff, Neil Tabor, Nancy Eklund, Pete Mayer, Brandon Miles
Chair Hedrick called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
BUSINESS AGENDA
Committee members agreed to allow Jessica Clawson to speak on item A.
A. Ordinance: Townhouse Allowances in Tukwila Urban Center
Staff is seeking approval of an ordinance that would remove townhouses as a permitted use
in the Tukwila Urban Center.
Item(s) for follow-up:
Revisit ordinance if Regional Growth Center designation becomes at risk.
Committee Recommendation
Do not forward.
B. Ordinance: Amending Residential Conversions Code
Staff is seeking approval of a new code section addressing "Residential Conversions" that
would bring the city into compliance with upcoming changes in state law and designate an
area for preservation of ground floor commercial space.
Committee Recommendation
Unanimous approval. Forward to April 28, 2025 Committee of the Whole.
MISCELLANEOUS
The meeting adjourned at 5:58 p.m.
HH
Committee Chair Approval
26