HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrd 2770 - TMC Title 18: Tukwila International Boulevard Zoning AmendmentsWashington
Ordinance No. 2 r 7L..
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
TUKWILA, WASHINGTON, AMENDING ORDINANCE NOS.
2741 §4 (part), 2762 §2, 2765 §11 (part) & §13; 2765 §120,
§122, §124, §125, §127, §134 & §135 AS CODIFIED AT
VARIOUS SECTIONS OF TUKWILA MUNICIPAL CODE
(TMC) TITLE 18, "ZONING"; REENACTING TMC
CHAPTERS 18.22 & 18.24; ESTABLISHING TMC
CHAPTER 18.47 & TMC SECTION 18.60.080; REPEALING
VARIOUS ORDINANCES AS CODIFIED AT TMC
CHAPTER 18.43; REPEALING TABLES 18-2 AND 18-5; TO
AMEND & ESTABLISH REGULATIONS TO SUPPORT
DEVELOPMENT IN THE TUKWILA INTERNATIONAL
BOULEVARD DISTRICT; PROVIDING FOR
SEVERABILITY; AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE
DATE.
WHEREAS, Tukwila Municipal Code ("TMC") Title 18 regulates zoning and land use
in the City of Tukwila; and
WHEREAS, the Tukwila International Boulevard ("TIB") district is one of Tukwila's
highest priority areas for revitalization; and
WHEREAS, the Tukwila Comprehensive Plan ("Comp Plan"), adopted on December
16, 2024, contains the goal that the TIB district "is a thriving, walkable, well-rounded
neighborhood and a desirable place to live, work, shop, worship, or play"; and
WHEREAS, the Comp Plan directs the City to "ensure that the Zoning Code and
design guidelines support the types of development envisioned" within the TIB district; and
WHEREAS, City staff have found that the existing development and design standards
in the TMC are not in alignment with the goals and policies of the Comp Plan in relation to
the TIB district and that an update of regulations supports the City's overall alignment with
updates in state law, adopted housing goals, and the goals and policies of the Comp Plan;
and
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WHEREAS, City staff recommend updating portions of the TMC, including sections
related to the design, parking, and use standards, as well as to the development standards
within the Neighborhood Commercial Center and Regional Commercial zoning districts, the
Commercial Redevelopment Areas, the Urban Renewal Overlay, and the Special Height
Overlay to bring these regulations into compliance with the Comp Plan, adopted housing
goals, and state regulations; and
WHEREAS, there are also certain ambiguities and policies in the TMC that need to be
revised and updated; and
WHEREAS, existing language and formatting of Title 18 require revisions to improve
clarity, readability, and consistency; and
WHEREAS, City staff prepared code amendments to address the above referenced
changes for consistency, readability, and compliance with the Comp Plan and state law
(collectively the "TIB Code Amendments"); and
WHEREAS, on July 22nd, 2025, the City's State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA)
Responsible Official issued a Determination of Non -Significance on the proposed TIB Code
Amendments; and
WHEREAS, the Tukwila Planning Commission held a properly noticed public hearing
on August 28th, 2025 to solicit and receive public comment, and following that hearing,
recommended that the Tukwila City Council approve the proposed TIB Code Amendments;
and
WHEREAS, on October 20th, 2025, after considering the analysis and proposed TIB
Code Amendments prepared by City staff, the recommendation from the Planning
Commission, and the public comments received (if any), the City Council desire to adopt the
TIB Code Amendments as set forth herein.
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 (TMC).
Section 2. Regulations Established. The following sections are hereby established
in TMC 18.06, "Definitions," to read as follows:
18.06.039 Amusement Park
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"Amusement Park" means a commercial entertainment land use featuring one or
more amusement devices, with or without other commercial entertainment land uses,
primarily in an outdoor setting.
18.06.071 Blank Wall
"Blank Wall" means any non -blind wall that does not include a transparent window
or door and that exceeds 15 feet of horizontal length and vertical height.
18.06.072 Blind Wall
"Blind Wall" means any wall, or portion of a wall, that is parallel to and less than five
(5) feet from another existing, proposed, or potential wall of equivalent area, or that is
located directly at a lot line when abutting a parcel where zero -lot -line development is
also permitted.
18.06.238 Drive-Throughs
"Drive-Throughs" means the uses of land, buildings or structures, or parts thereof,
to provide or dispense products or services, either wholly or in part, through an attendant
or a window or an automated machine, to persons remaining in vehicles which are in a
lane dedicated for that purpose.
18.06.242 Dwelling, Co -Living
"Dwelling, Co -living" means a development with sleeping units that are
independently rented and lockable and provide living and sleeping space, and residents
share kitchen facilities with other sleeping units in the building.
18.06.249 Easily Adaptable
"Easily Adaptable" means a space that is constructed to meet all minimum standards
for a Type-B occupancy space of the International Building Code (IBC) and the
International Fire Code (IFC).
18.06.250 Eating and Drinking Establishments
"Eating and Drinking Establishments" means a business dedicated to the sale of food
and/or beverages to the public, including restaurants, bars, tap rooms, brewpubs, coffee
shops, and other similar uses, but not including nightclubs.
18.06.451 Industrial Use, Light
A. "Industrial Use, Light" means manufacturing and industrial uses that have little
potential for creating off -site noise, smoke, dust, vibration or other external environmental
impacts or pollution. An applicant may be required to demonstrate that a proposed use
meets this definition, and performance may be monitored. Examples of uses that always
meet this definition include, but are not limited to:
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1. Manufacturing, processing and/or packaging pharmaceuticals and related
products, such as cosmetics and drugs.
2. Manufacturing, processing and/or packaging previously prepared materials
including, but not limited to, bags, brooms, brushes, canvas, clay, clothing, fur, furniture,
glass, ink, paint, paper, plastics, rubber, tile, and wood.
3. Manufacturing, processing, assembling, packaging and/or repairing
electronic, mechanical or precision instruments such as medical and dental equipment,
photographic goods, measurement and control devices and recording equipment.
4. Manufacturing, processing, and/or packaging of foods, such as baked
goods, beverages, candy, canned or preserved foods, dairy products and byproducts,
frozen foods, instant foods, and meats (no slaughtering)
18.06.452 Industrial Use, Heavy
A. "Industrial Use, Heavy" means manufacturing and industrial uses that have
moderate to substantial potential for creating off -site noise, smoke, dust, vibration or other
external environmental impacts. An applicant may be required to demonstrate that a
proposed use meets this definition, and performance may be monitored. Examples of uses
that always meet this definition include, but are not limited to:
1. Manufacturing, processing and/or assembling chemicals, light metals,
plastics, solvents, soaps, wood, coal, glass, enamels, textiles, fabrics, plaster, agricultural
products or animal products (no rendering or slaughtering); and
2. Manufacturing, processing and/or assembling of previously manufactured
metals, such as iron and steel fabrication; steel production by electric arc melting, argon
oxygen refining, and consumable electrode melting; and similar heavy industrial uses; and
3. Manufacturing, processing and/or assembling of previously prepared metals
including, but not limited to, stamping, dyeing, shearing or punching of metal, engraving,
galvanizing and hand forging; and
4. Manufacturing, processing, assembling and/or packaging of electrical or
mechanical equipment, vehicles and machines including, but not limited to, heavy and light
machinery, tools, airplanes, boats or other transportation vehicles and equipment; and
5. Heavy metal processes such as smelting, blast furnaces, drop forging or
drop hammering.
18.06.587 Nightclub
"Nightclub" means a commercial establishment that habitually operates after the hour
of midnight, dispenses alcoholic beverages for consumption on the premises, and in which
one or more forms of amusement are provided or permitted, such as dancing.
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Section 3. Ordinance No. 2741 §4 (part), as codified at various sections of TMC
Chapter 18.06, "Definitions," is hereby amended to read as follows:
18.06.005 General Definitions
This chapter contains definitions of technical and procedural terms used throughout
TMC Title 18. Any term herein not defined but defined in any other adopted regulation or
statute, such as but not limited to the International Building Code or the Revised Code of
Washington, is hereby adopted by reference. Words used in the present tense include
the future, and the plural includes the singular; the word "he" or "his" shall also refer to
"she" or "her," the word "shall" is always mandatory, the word "may" denotes a use of
discretion in making a decision; the words "used" or "occupied" shall be considered as
though followed by the words "or intended, arranged or designed to be used or occupied."
18.06.073 Block
"Block" means a group of lots, tracts or parcels, which have been subdivided, and
are entirely surrounded by highways or streets or in part by a well-defined or fixed
boundary.
18.06.074 Boarding House
"Boarding house" means a residential building or use which provides housing on a
short term commercial basis for tenants. The following uses are excluded: Bed and
breakfast facilities, hotels and motels, extended -stay hotels or motels, shelters, and
facilities which provide short- or long-term care for tenants suffering from physical, mental
or other disabilities.
18.06.241 Durable Uniform Surface
"Durable uniform surface" means a durable uniform surface approved for the storage
of vehicles by the City and consists of:
1. Permeable pavement, such as grasscrete, porous pavers, permeable asphalt;
or
2. Three inches of 3/8" to 1-1/4" crushed porous aggregate consisting of open -
graded top course, base course, or similar material with 35-40% porosity. Mud or other
fine materials should be prevented from working their way to the surface by the installation
of a geotextile fabric, quarry spalls, or other approved materials below the porous
aggregate; or
3. Concrete (4" minimum Portland cement concrete) over gravel section as
described above and sloped to drain to prevent drainage impacts; or
4. Blacktop (2" minimum asphalt concrete pavement) over gravel section as
described above and sloped to drain to prevent drainage impacts; or
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5. Any other configuration of materials approved by the City that maintains a
durable uniform surface and prevents drainage impacts.
18.06.243 Dwelling, Manufactured Home or Mobile Home
"Manufactured home dwelling" means a single-family dwelling required to be built in
accordance with the regulations adopted under the National Manufactured Housing
Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974
18.06.244 Dwelling, Middle Housing
"Middle housing dwelling," means a building or buildings that are compatible in scale,
form, and character with single-family houses and contain two or more attached, stacked,
or clustered homes including duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, fiveplexes, sixplexes,
townhouses, stacked flats, courtyard apartments, and cottage housing.
18.06.245 Dwelling, Mobile Home
"Mobile home dwelling," means a factory -built dwelling constructed before June 15,
1976, to standards other than the National Manufactured Housing Construction and
Safety Standards Act of 1974 and acceptable under applicable State codes in effect at
the time of construction or introduction of the home into this state.
18.06.246 Dwelling, Multi -Family
"Multi -family dwelling" means a building designed to contain two or more dwelling
units, and not meeting the definition of a middle housing dwelling. Duration of tenancy in
multi -family dwellings is not less than one month.
18.06.247 Dwelling, Single -Family
"Single-family dwelling" means a building, modular home or new manufactured
home, designed to contain no more than one dwelling unit plus two accessory dwelling
units.
18.06.248 Dwelling Unit
"Dwelling unit" means the whole of a building or a portion thereof providing complete
housekeeping facilities for a group of individuals living together as a single residential
community, with common cooking, eating and bathroom facilities, other than transitory
housing or correctional facilities as defined in this code, which is physically separated
from any other dwelling units which may be in the same structure.
18.06.353 General Retail
"General retail" is a business or a store which engages in the sale of goods and/or
services to the general public. Examples include, but are not limited to stores that sell
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clothing, groceries, or other consumer goods, and personal services such as barbers,
salons, and spas.
18.06.584 Motel
"Motel" means a building or buildings or portion thereof, the units of which are used,
rented, or hired out as sleeping accommodations only for the purposes of transitory
housing. A motel includes tourist cabins, tourist court, motor lodge, auto court, cabin
court, motor inn and similar names but does not include accommodations for travel trailers
or recreation vehicles. Motel rooms shall have their own private toilet facilities and may
or may not have their own kitchen facilities. Motels are distinguished from hotels primarily
by reason of providing adjoining parking and direct independent access to each rental
unit. Motels shall not include dwelling units, as defined in this section, for permanent
occupancy. No room may be used by the same person or persons for a period exceeding
30 calendar days per year. Not included are institutions housing persons under legal
restraint or requiring medical attention or care.
18.06.585 Native Vegetation
"Native vegetation" means plant species, other than noxious weeds, that are
indigenous to the coastal region of the Pacific Northwest and that reasonably could be
expected to have occurred naturally on the site.
18.06.586 New Manufactured Home
"New manufactured home" means any manufactured home required to be titled
under Title 46 RCW, which has not been previously titled to a retail purchaser, and is not
a "used mobile home" as defined in RCW 82.45.032(2).
Section 4. Ordinance No. 2741 §4 (part), as codified at TMC Section 18.06.074, "Brew
Pub," is hereby repealed, thereby deleting this section.
18.06.074 Brew Pub
"Brew pub" mcans a restaurant typc establishment that mccts the following critcria:
1. Sells bccr for consumption on site and sale in scaled containcrs;
2. Restaurant portion can be no larger than 8,000 square fcct;
3. Produces beer in batch sizes not less than seven U.S. barrels (thirty one
gallons);
/1. Produccs no morc than 2,000 barrels of bccr per year;
5. The brcw house is enclosed with an air trcatmcnt system;
6. Revenue from food sales must comprise at least 60% of total busing
revenues.
Section 5. Ordinance Nos. 2741 §4 (part) and 2762 §2, as codified at TMC Chapter
18.08.010, "Use Districts," is hereby amended to read as follows:
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18.08.010 Use Districts
A. In order to classify, segregate and regulate the uses of land, buildings, and
structures, the City is divided into the following use districts:
CR Community Residential
HDR High Density Residential
MUO Mixed Use Office
0 Office
RCC Residential Commercial Center
NCC Neighborhood Commercial Center
RC Regional Commercial
RCM Regional Commercial Mixed -use
TUC Tukwila Urban Center
C/LI Commercial/Light Industrial
LI Light Industrial
HI Heavy Industrial
MIC/L Manufacturing Industrial Center/Light
MIC/H Manufacturing Industrial Center/Heavy
TSO Tukwila South Overlay
TVS Tukwila Valley South
PRO Public Recreation Overlay
SOD Shoreline Overlay
SAOD Sensitive Areas Overlay
Section 6. Ordinance No. 2765 §11 (part), as codified at TMC Chapters 18.10.010,
"Purpose," and 18.10.020, "Land Uses Allowed," are hereby amended to read as follows:
18.10.010 Purpose
A. This district implements the Community Residential Comprehensive Plan
("CR") designation. It is intended to provide low -density and medium -density residential
areas together with a full range of urban infrastructure services in order to maintain stable
residential neighborhoods.
18.10.020 Land Uses Allowed
A. Refer to TMC 18.09, "Land Uses Allowed by District." Parcels within a
Commercial Redevelopment Area may be permitted to aggregate with, and use the
development standards and permitted uses, of any adjacent parcel within the NCC or RC
zoning district, pursuant to TMC 18.60.100.
Section 7. Ordinance Nos. 2741 §4 (part) and 2765 §13, as codified at TMC Chapters
18.14.010, "Purpose," and 18.14.020, "Land Uses Allowed," are hereby amended to read
as follows:
18.14.010 Purpose
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A. This district implements the High -Density Residential (HDR) Comprehensive
Plan designation. It is intended to provide a high -density, multiple -family district which is
also compatible with commercial and office areas.
18.14.020 Land Uses Allowed
A. Refer to TMC 18.09, "Land Uses Allowed by District." Parcels within a
Commercial Redevelopment Area may be permitted to aggregate with, and use the
development standards and permitted uses of, any adjacent parcel within the NCC or RC
zoning district, pursuant to TMC 18.60.100.
Section 8. Repealer. Ordinance Nos. 2741 §4 (part), 2765 §29, §30, §31, and §32,
and 2758 §6, as codified at TMC Chapter 18.22, "Neighborhood Commercial Center (NCC)
District," are hereby repealed, thereby eliminating TMC Chapter 18.22.
Section 9. TMC Chapter 18.22 Reenacted. TMC Chapter 18.22 is hereby reenacted
to read as follows:
CHAPTER 18.22
NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL CENTER
(NCC) DISTRICT
Sections:
18.22.010 Purpose
18.22.020 Land Uses Allowed
18.22.030 On -Site Hazardous Substances Prohibited
18.22.040 Design Standards
18.22.050 Street Frontage Improvements
18.22.060 Dimensional and Density Standards
18.22.010 Purpose
A. This district implements the Neighborhood Commercial Center (NCC)
Comprehensive Plan designation. It is intended to provide for pedestrian -friendly areas
characterized and scaled to serve multiple residential areas, with a diverse mix of uses.
18.22.020 Land Uses Allowed
A. Refer to TMC 18.09, "Land Uses Allowed by District." Parcels within a
Commercial Redevelopment Area may be permitted to aggregate with, and use the
development standards and permitted uses of, any adjacent parcel within the NCC zoning
district, pursuant to TMC 18.60.100.
18.22.030 On -Site Hazardous Substances Prohibited
A. No on -site hazardous substance processing and handling, or hazardous waste
treatment and storage facilities shall be permitted, unless clearly incidental and secondary
to a permitted use. On -site hazardous waste treatment and storage facilities shall be
subject to the State siting criteria (RCW 70.105). See TMC 21.08.
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18.22.040 Design Standards
A. All development within the NCC zoning district shall be subject to design
standards and procedures in accordance with the provisions found at TMC 18.60, "Design
Review".
18.22.050 Street Frontage Improvements
A. Applicability: In addition to all projects required to install frontage
improvements by any other section or chapter of the TMC, all projects that propose to
construct new structures that will feature any use that is not an accessory use shall install
frontage improvements in accordance with this TMC section 18.22.050. These
requirements may be waived or altered by the Director via a Type 2 Design Review
application if the applicant demonstrates the following:
1. That the proposed project is located on a site for which the frontage was
previously improved but does not comply with the standards of this section, and the
project will not result in an increase of multi -modal visitors to the site of greater than 25%
from the previously approved use. The Director may require the provision of a multi -modal
traffic study that compares total site -visitation both before and after construction.
B. Standards: All projects subject to this section shall install improvements on all
frontages. In addition to the following listed standards, improvements shall conform to the
street designation determined by the Department of Public Works or the Department of
Community Development, and shall meet the minimum standards of TMC 17.20.040.H,
`Street Components and Improvement Requirements', and the `Tukwila Infrastructure
Design and Construction Standards'. In areas of conflict, priority shall be given to this
Section (TMC 18.24.070), then TMC 17.20.040.H, then the `Tukwila Infrastructure Design
and Construction Standards'. The improvements required in this section shall be installed
only at the back -of -curb. Required improvements may be located on private property if
permanent public easements are provided, in accordance with the requirements of the
Department of Public Works.
1. Sidewalk Zones and Widths: Frontages in the NCC zoning district shall
feature the following zones:
(a) Frontage Zone: This area is defined as the area between the
property line and pedestrian clear zone. This zone may be able to accommodate sidewalk
cafes, store entrances, retail display, landscaping, transit stop amenities, or other features
that activate and enhance the pedestrian environment. Wider frontage zones provide
more room for future tenants and residents to activate the public right-of-way in a manner
compatible with street trees and other required features between the frontage zone and
curb.
(1) Minimum Width: 2 feet.
(b) Pedestrian Clear Zone: This area is defined as the area of the
sidewalk corridor that is specifically reserved for pedestrian travel. Street furniture, street
trees, planters, and other vertical elements such as poles, fire hydrants and street
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furniture, as well as temporary signs and other items shall not protrude into the pedestrian
clear zone. The minimum width shall be as follows:
(1) Minimum Width:
i. Tukwila International Boulevard: 8 feet
ii. All Other Streets: 6 feet
(c) Landscape / Furniture Zone: This area is defined as the area
between the roadway curb face and the front edge of the pedestrian clear zone. This zone
buffers pedestrians from the adjacent roadway and is the appropriate location for
bioretention cells, rain gardens, street furniture, art, street trees and vegetation, and
includes the 6 inch curb in its dimensions. It is also the preferred location for other
elements such as signage, pedestrian lighting, hydrants, and above and below grade
utilities. Clearance and setback requirements apply to many elements located in the
landscape/furniture zone. In transit areas, the landscape / furniture zone may be utilized
for transit patron waiting, boarding and alighting and may include transit signage, shelters,
benches, litter receptacles, real-time display, off -board payment, and pedestrian scaled
lighting.
(1) Minimum Width: The minimum widths shown below may be
increased by the Department on frontages with unique features, including transit stops.
i. Tukwila International Boulevard: 8 feet.
ii. All Other Streets: 6 feet.
(2) Trees: Street trees shall be spaced to maximize tree growth
based on size. Species shall be chosen from the City of Tukwila Approved Tree List.
Other species may be approved by the Department. Chosen street tree species shall be
non -columnar and shall be chosen from among large species if the planting location is
along Tukwila International Boulevard or Southcenter Boulevard, or from among the
medium or large species if the planting location is along any other street. Planting shall
meet the minimum standards of TMC 18.52.
C. Alternative Sidewalk Designs: Alternative sidewalk designs may be approved
by the Department if the alternative design meets the following standards:
1. The alternative design provides a barrier free, safe pedestrian route; and
2. The alternative design accommodates all required elements of the
sidewalk in the area, such as transit waiting areas or bicycle parking; and
3. The alternative design results in fewer removals of existing mature
vegetation than would be required with strict compliance; and/or
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4. The alternative design enables green stormwater infrastructure above
stormwater code requirements; and/or
5. The alternative design will avoid costly utility relocations that are not
recommended by the Department of Public Works; and/or
6. The alternative design allows for more extensive sidewalk improvements
(1 block minimum) compared to strict compliance with the sidewalk standards, and/or
7. The alternative design better aligns with a separate project that will modify
the project site's frontage within the next 5 years, as determined by the Department.
18.22.060 Dimensional and Density Standards
A. Development within the NCC district shall conform to the following listed and
referenced standards.
NCC DIMENSIONAL AND DENSITY STANDARDS
Property Location
Parcels Within 500 Feet of 1
Tukwila International Boulevard
All Other Parcels
Minimum Lot Area
None
Residential Density
No Maximum
Setbacks2
Fronts, Sides, Rear
Front
Entrances of Street Facing First -Floor
Minimum: 6'
Homes
Minimum: 6'
Maximum Average: 10'
All other Uses:
Sides & Rear
Minimum: 10'
Minimum: 0'
Maximum Average: 10'
Maximum
Development
Coverage
75%
Ground Floor Uses
Parcels with any frontage on Tukwila International Boulevard:
Non-residential uses required on a minimum of 60% of the ground floor's
facade area. As part of a Type 2 Design Review permit, this requirement
may be waived if at least 60% of the ground floor's facade area is designed
such that it may be
"Easily Adaptable". See TMC 18.06.249.
Minimum Building
Heights
30 feet
N/A
Maximum Building
Heights
Base Height:
Base Height:
65 feet
50 feet
Parcels South of
S 146t' Street:
All other
Parcels:
Incentive Height3:
Incentive Height3:
Incentive Height3:
70 feet
125 feet
90 feet
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1This includes all parcels where any portion of the parcel is within 500 linear feet, as the crow flies, from any portion of
Tukwila International Boulevard, including sidewalk areas of the Boulevard that lie within private property but are subject
to permanent easements for public access.
2Maximum setback standards may be altered by the Director via a Type 2 Design Review application, provided the
applicant demonstrates that: (i) strict adherence to setback rules will result in costly utility relocations that are not
recommended by the Department of Public Works; or (ii) required sight distance triangles prohibit structures from
compliance, and the issue is not mitigatable by enhancements to the project's frontage; or (iii) the proposed structure(s)
exhibits a unique design or use that is incompatible with the setback requirement, or that would be better served by an
alternative setback. In such cases, the required setback alteration shall be the minimum necessary to avoid the
identified impacts and accomplish the project's goals.
3Projects may use incentive standards only if the project opts in to and is compliant with the provisions of the
Development Incentive Program found at TMC 18.47.
Section 10. Repealer. Ordinance Nos. 2741 §4 (part), 2765 §33, §34, §35, and §36,
and Ordinance No. 2758 §7, as codified at TMC Chapter 18.24, "Regional Commercial (RC)
District", are hereby repealed, thereby eliminating TMC Chapter 18.24.
Section 11. TMC Chapter 18.24 Reenacted. TMC Chapter 18.24 is hereby
reenacted to read as follows:
CHAPTER 18.24
REGIONAL COMMERCIAL
(RC) DISTRICT
Sections:
18.24.010 Purpose
18.24.020 Land Uses Allowed
18.24.030 On -Site Hazardous Substances Prohibited.
18.24.040 Design Standards
18.24.050 Street Frontage Improvements
18.24.060 Dimensional and Density Standards
18.24.010 Purpose
A. This district implements the Regional Commercial (RC) Comprehensive Plan
designation. It is intended to provide for areas characterized by residential, mixed -use,
commercial services, offices, lodging, entertainment, and retail uses.
18.24.020 Land Uses Allowed
A. Refer to TMC 18.09, "Land Uses Allowed by District." Parcels within a
Commercial Redevelopment Area may be permitted to aggregate with, and use the
development standards and permitted uses of, any adjacent parcel within the RC zoning
district, pursuant to TMC 18.60.100.
18.24.030 On -Site Hazardous Substances Prohibited.
A. No on -site hazardous substance processing and handling, or hazardous waste
treatment and storage facilities shall be permitted, unless clearly incidental and secondary
to a permitted use. On -site hazardous waste treatment and storage facilities shall be
subject to the State siting criteria (RCW 70.105). See TMC 21.08.
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18.24.040 Design Standards
A. All development within the RC zoning district shall be subject to design
standards and procedures in accordance with the provisions found at TMC 18.60, "Design
Review".
18.24.050 Street Frontage Improvements
A. Applicability: In addition to all projects required to install frontage
improvements by any other section of the TMC, all projects that propose to construct new
structures that will feature any use that is not an accessory use shall install frontage
improvements in accordance with this section. These requirements may be waived by the
Director via a Type 2 Design Review application if the applicant demonstrates the
following:
1. That the proposed project is located on a site for which the frontage was
previously improved but does not comply with the standards of this section, and the
project will not result in an increase of multi -modal visitors to the site of greater than 25%
from the previously approved use. The Director may require the provision of a multi -modal
traffic study that compares total site -visitation both before and after construction.
B. Standards: All projects subject to this section shall install improvements on all
frontages. In addition to the following listed standards, improvements shall conform to the
street designation determined by the Department of Public Works or the Department of
Community Development, and shall meet the minimum standards of TMC 17.20.040.H,
`Street Components and Improvement Requirements', and the `Tukwila Infrastructure
Design and Construction Standards'. In areas of conflict, priority shall be given to this
Section (TMC 18.24.070), then TMC 17.20.040.H, then the `Tukwila Infrastructure Design
and Construction Standards'. The improvements required in this section shall be installed
only at the back -of -curb. Required improvements may be located on private property if
permanent public easements are provided, in accordance with the requirements of the
Department of Public Works.
1. Sidewalk Zones and Widths: Frontages in the RC zoning district shall
feature the following zones:
(a) Frontage Zone: This area is defined as the area between the
property line and pedestrian clear zone. This zone may be able to accommodate sidewalk
cafes, store entrances, retail display, landscaping, transit stop amenities, or other features
that activate and enhance the pedestrian environment. Wider frontage zones provide
more room for future tenants and residents to activate the public right-of-way in a manner
compatible with street trees and other required features between the frontage zone and
curb.
(1) Minimum Width: 2 feet.
(b) Pedestrian Clear Zone: This area is defined as the area of the
sidewalk corridor that is specifically reserved for pedestrian travel. Street furniture, street
trees, planters, and other vertical elements such as poles, fire hydrants and street
furniture, as well as temporary signs and other items shall not protrude into the pedestrian
clear zone. The minimum width shall be as follows:
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(1) Minimum Width:
i. Tukwila International Boulevard and Southcenter
Boulevard: 8 feet
ii. All Other Streets: 6 feet
(c) Landscape / Furniture Zone: This area is defined as the area
between the roadway curb face and the front edge of the pedestrian clear zone. This zone
buffers pedestrians from the adjacent roadway and is the appropriate location for
bioretention cells, rain gardens, street furniture, art, street trees and vegetation, and
includes the 6 inch curb in its dimensions. It is also the preferred location for other
elements such as signage, pedestrian lighting, hydrants, and above and below grade
utilities. Clearance and setback requirements apply to many elements located in the
landscape/furniture zone. In transit areas, the landscape / furniture zone may be utilized
for transit patron waiting, boarding and alighting and may include transit signage, shelters,
benches, litter receptacles, real-time display, off -board payment, and pedestrian scaled
lighting.
(1) Minimum Width: The minimum widths shown below may be
increased by the Department on frontages with unique features, including transit stops.
i. Tukwila International Boulevard and Southcenter
Boulevard: 8 feet.
ii. All Other Streets: 6 feet.
(2) Trees: Street trees shall be spaced to maximize tree growth
based on size. Species shall be chosen from the City of Tukwila Approved Tree List.
Other species may be approved by the Department. Chosen street tree species shall be
non -columnar and shall be chosen from among large species if the planting location is
along Tukwila International Boulevard or Southcenter Boulevard, or from among the
medium or large species if the planting location is along any other street. Planting shall
meet the minimum standards of TMC 18.52.
C. Alternative Sidewalk Designs: Alternative sidewalk designs may be approved
by the Department if the alternative design meets the following standards:
1. The alternative design provides a barrier free, safe pedestrian route; and
2. The alternative design accommodates all required elements of the
sidewalk in the area, such as transit waiting areas or bicycle parking; and
3. The alternative design results in fewer removals of existing mature
vegetation than would be required with strict compliance; and/or
4. The alternative design enables green stormwater infrastructure above
stormwater code requirements; and/or
5. The alternative design will avoid costly utility relocations that are not
recommended by the Department of Public Works; and/or
6. The alternative design allows for more extensive sidewalk improvements
(1 block minimum) compared to strict compliance with the sidewalk standards, and/or
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7. The alternative design better aligns with a separate project that will modify
the project site's frontage within the next 5 years, as determined by the Department.
18.24.060 Dimensional and Density Standards
A. Development within the RC district shall conform to the following listed and
referenced standards.
RC DIMENSIONAL AND DENSITY STANDARDS
Minimum Lot Area
None
Residential Density
No Maximum
Setbacks'
Fronts, Sides, Rear -
Portions of Structure Below 85 feet
Front, Sides, Rear -
Portions of Structure Above 85 feet
Entrances of Street Facing First -Floor
Abutting Street or Alley
Homes
10'
Minimum: 6'
Maximum Average:
All other Uses:
Minimum: 10'
Abutting Adjacent Property
Minimum: 20'
Minimum: 0'
Maximum Average: 10'
Maximum
Development
Coverage
Portions of Buildings Above 90 Feet:
65%
Maximum Floorplates
Floorplates at or Above the 9th Story:
Average must not exceed 13,500 square feet
Ground Floor Uses
Parcels with any frontage on Tukwila International or Southcenter Boulevards:
Non-residential uses required on a minimum of 60% of the ground floor. As part of a
Type 2 Design Review permit, this requirement may be waived if at least 60% of the
ground floor is designed such that it may be "Easily Adaptable". See TMC 18.06.249.
Minimum Building
Heights
30 feet
Maximum Building
Heights
Parcels south of
S 148th St
Parcels north of S 148th
St & south of S 146th St
Parcels north of
S 146' St
Base Height:
Base Height:
Base Height:
85 feet
65 feet
65 feet
Incentive Heightz:
Incentive Heightz:
Incentive Heightz:
No Maximum3
130 feet
90 feet
Tower Separation
Portions of Buildings Above 90 Feet:
N/A
60 feet
'Maximum setback standards may be altered by the Director via a Type 2 Design Review application,
provided the applicant demonstrates that: (i) strict adherence to setback rules will result in costly utility
relocations that are not recommended by the Department of Public Works; or (ii) required sight distance
triangles prohibit structures from compliance, and the issue is not mitigatable by enhancements to the
project's frontage; or (iii) the proposed structure(s) exhibits a unique design or use that is incompatible with
the setback requirement, or that would be better served by an alternative setback. In such cases, the
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required setback alteration shall be the minimum necessary to avoid the identified impacts and accomplish
the project's goals.
2Projects may use incentive standards only if the project opts in to and is compliant with the provisions of
the Development Incentive Program found at TMC 18.47.
3Maximum heights are not established by the City of Tukwila for projects on parcels south of S 148th Street
that participate in the Development Incentive Program found at TMC 18.47. Maximum heights may be
limited by other standards, including those of the Federal Aviation Administration.
Section 12. Ordinance Nos. 2741 §4 (part) and 2765 §63, §64, §65, §66, §67, and
§68, as codified at TMC Chapter 18.43, "Urban Renewal Overlay (URO) District," are hereby
repealed, thereby eliminating TMC Chapter 18.43.
Section 13 . Regulations Established. TMC Chapter 18.47, "Development Incentive
Program," is hereby adopted to read as follows:
CHAPTER 18.47
DEVELOPMENT INCENTIVE PROGRAM
Sections:
18.47.010 Purpose
18.47.020 Applicability and Eligibility
18.47.030 Community Benefits and Development Standards
18.47.010 Purpose
A. The purpose of this chapter to incentivize certain types of new development to
provide benefits for the Tukwila community by providing flexibility for certain standards.
18.47.020 Applicability and Eligibility
A. A project within the Regional Center (RC) or Neighborhood Commercial Center
(NCC) zoning districts may opt into the Development Incentive Program by voluntarily
providing one or more of the listed Community Benefits in the Development Incentive
Program table. A project must earn at least 100 points to comply with the standards of
this program. All applicants wishing to participate in this program shall apply for and obtain
a Type 2 Design Review Permit, via which verification of compliance with this program
shall be determined. A detailed narrative is required to verify compliance. The Department
may request any other information or certification necessary to determine compliance
with the program and award points.
B. The Development Incentive Program table shall be used to evaluate eligibility
for a development to obtain one or more of the following:
1. Increased height beyond the base height limit within an applicable zoning
district, up to the incentive height limit; and/or
2. In accordance with the provisions of TMC 18.60.070, a departure from the
Multi -Family, Mixed Use, Hotel, and Motel Design Review Criteria.
18.47.030 Community Benefits and Development Standards
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A. See each community benefit for details regarding eligibility and development
and design standards.
Development Incentive Program
Community
Benefits
Development Standards
Points
Family Sized
Homes
Eligibility
100
1. At least 5% of all units contain 3 or more bedrooms and at least 20% of
all homes contain 2 bedrooms; or
2. At least 10% of all units contain 3 or more bedrooms; or
3. At least 40% of all units contain 2 bedrooms
Affordable
Homes
Eligibility:
100
For a minimum of at least 12 years, at least 20% of all units shall be
affordable to those earning 80% or less of the King County Area Median
Income.
Enhanced
Streetscapes
Eligibility:
100
At least 4 feet of additional frontage beyond minimum requirements in the
underlying zoning district or other City standards. Required along all
frontages of the development site.
Required Frontage Zone Features:
The frontage shall feature at least 3 of the following:
1. Additional landscaping beyond the minimum required;
2. Decorative paving;
3. Additional weather protection;
4. Artistic elements;
5. Structures that encourage active use, such as permanent street cafe
features or play equipment, and retail patios;
6. Residential patios or stoops.
Pedestrian
Pathways
Definition:
100
A pedestrian pathway is an urban design intervention to increase pedestrian
connectivity and increase the number activity areas located at corners and
intersections.
Eligibility:
At project shall install at least one pedestrian pathway, with a minimum
width of 16 feet and maximum width of 30 feet. A site is eligible for this
benefit only when the midblock promenade can be sited more than 150 feet
from the nearest public or private intersection that provides public
pedestrian access. Walkways shall incorporate textured paving, plantings,
landscaping, pedestrian -scale lighting, and active residential or non-
residential entrances and frontages. If stairs are incorporated, the stairs
shall feature bicycle runnels.
Easements:
Permanent public easements for access are required. Terms of the public
access may be established; however, terms may not include restrictions on
walking bicycles or prohibitions of usage by the public after 6:00 AM or
before 10:00 PM.
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Development Incentive Program
Community
Benefits
Development Standards
Points
Active
Recreation
Area
Examples:
50
Sport courts, child play areas, dog relief areas, climbing walls, and exercise
equipment.
Eligibility:
A project shall install at least one active recreation area, which may be
located out -or -indoors. The recreation area shall be a minimum of 2,500
square feet and shall be accessible to the public. A fee may be charged for
use, but usage may not be limited by means of membership or to building
tenants/occupants.
Enclosed
Plaza
Definition:
50
A publicly accessible continuous open space located within a building and
covered to provide overhead weather protection, while providing substantial
natural daylight. Examples are atriums or galleries.
Eligibility:
A project shall install at least one enclosed plaza, which shall be open and
accessible to the public during the same hours that the building in which it is
located is open. The enclosed plaza shall provide signage to identify the
space as open to the public and shall be visually and physically accessible
from a publicly accessible space. The minimum area is 750 square feet,
and the minimum horizontal dimension is 20 feet.
Green
Building
Certification
Eligibility:
100
The applicant shall submit evidence that the project has achieved, or will
achieve upon completion, one of the following:
• Certification of compliance with the Living Building Challenge, in one of
the following ways:
o Achievement of all twenty Imperatives for new buildings - LBC
full certification, or
o Achievement of all Core Imperatives, in addition to all
im eratives in either Water, Ener
p gy, or Materials Petal -Petal
Certification.
• Certification of compliance with LEED Platinum.
• Certification of compliance with a different green building program that
provides equivalent or superior sustainability and/or environmental
benefits to Tukwila's natural resources or environment to that of the
Living Building Challenge certification. A detailed narrative and
documentation shall be required to determine points eligibility.
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Development Incentive Program
Community
Benefits
Development Standards
Points
Neighborhood
Serving Use
Space
Definition:
100
Allocation of space for noncommercial neighborhood serving uses that
bolster livability for residents. Eligible neighborhood serving uses include
childcare, community meeting rooms, or nonprofit space.
Eligibility:
The project shall dedicate at least 5,000 square feet for these uses for the
life of the project. Applicant shall record with King County Recorder's Office
(or its successor agency) and provide a copy to the Director of a binding
document allocating those spaces only for neighborhood serving uses for
the life of the building. No other uses shall be approved for future tenancy in
those spaces if they are not consistent with the uses outlined in the
definition of neighborhood serving uses in this table. Spaces shall be
visually accessible from the street.
Small
Business
Spaces
Definition:
25 /
Space
Leasable retail or commercial spaces that are no smaller than 500 square
feet and no larger than 2,500 square feet.
Eligibility:
The project shall install at least one small business space.
Flexible
Benefit
Definition:
10-
100
For proposed amenities not identified in this table, the Flexible Benefit
allows an applicant the opportunity to propose an additional benefit that
would substantially increase livability in Tukwila.
Eligibility:
To obtain this incentive, the City may require the applicant to pay for an
independent technical review by a consultant retained by the City.
Consultant services may include but are not limited to economic evaluation
of public benefits, impacts on property values, review of construction
valuations, documentation related to constructability, and other input
deemed necessary by the City. The number of points awarded shall be
determined on a case -by -case basis.
The Director shall use the following criteria when evaluating a proposed
flexible benefit:
• The proposed benefit has merit and value for the community; and
• The proposed benefit is outside of the anticipated Development
Incentive Program structure; and
• The proposed benefit does not conflict with existing Land Use Code
regulations; and
• The proposed benefit equals or exceeds what would be provided by the
standard benefits provided above.
Section 14. Ordinance Nos. 2741 §4 (part) and 2765 §120, as codified at TMC
Chapter 18.60.20, "Scope and Applicability", are hereby amended to read as follows:
18.60.020 Scope and Applicability
A. The Director shall have the authority to approve, approve with conditions, or
deny all projects submitted based on a demonstration of compliance with all of adopted
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guidelines referenced in this chapter, as judged by the preponderance of evidence
standard.
B. The Director is authorized to review projects subject to design standard review.
The Director may approve, approve with conditions, modify and approve with conditions,
or deny, the application for design standard review. The City shall grant design approval
when the Director has determined that the applicable criteria listed in this chapter have
been met by the development proposal. The Director may impose specific conditions
upon the development proposal, including an increase in the standards of this title. These
conditions may include, but are not limited to: restrictions on locations of structures and
uses; structural restrictions that address safety, noise, light and glare, vibration, views,
aesthetics, and other impacts; and increased buffering requirements, including open
space, berms, fencing and landscaping.
C. No changes shall be made to approved designs without Director approval and
consideration of the change in the context of the entire project.
D. Except for multi -family, mixed -use, hotel, and motel uses, which shall be
subject to the thresholds found at TMC 18.60.070.A, all projects proposing new structures
or additions to structures on a parcel or an integrated site, where the new development's
floor area cumulatively exceeds 5,000 square feet, shall be required to apply for a Type
2 Design Review Permit. For projects not meeting the threshold for the requirement to
apply for a Type 2 Design Review Permit, compliance with the applicable design
standards shall be reviewed via the development permit application.
E. A building permit shall not be issued until the proposed development project
has received design approval.
F. Any reference to the term `Board of Architectural Review' in any adopted design
review guidelines or Code shall, unless otherwise stated, be understood to refer
exclusively to the Director.
Section 15. Ordinance Nos. 2741 §4 (part) and 2765 §122, as codified at TMC Chapter
18.60.040, "Design Review Criteria Applicability," are hereby amended to read as follows:
18.60.040 Design Review Criteria Applicability
A. Commercial and Light Industrial Uses: All commercial and light industrial
uses shall be evaluated using the design review criteria set forth in TMC 18.60.050, with
the following exclusions:
1. Mixed -use structures, hotels, or motels; or
2. Developments within the TSO District.
B. Single -Family and Middle Housing Uses: All new single-family and middle
housing dwellings shall be evaluated using the design review criteria set forth in TMC
18.60.060.
C. Multi -Family, Mixed -Use, Hotel, and Motel Uses: All multi -family, mixed -use,
hotel, and motel uses, as well as non-residential development in the CR zoning district,
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shall be evaluated using the applicable residential design review criteria set forth in TMC
18.60.070.
D. Vehicular Areas and Parking Structure Design Review Criteria: The
Vehicular Areas and Parking Structure Design Review Criteria set forth in TMC 18.60.080
shall be used whenever the provisions of this Title require a design review decision on
proposed or modified parking structures.
E. Tukwila South Design Review Criteria: The criteria found at TMC 18.60.090,
as well as the guidelines contained in the Tukwila South Overlay District Design Manual
or the Tukwila South Residential Design Guidelines, shall be used whenever the
provisions of this Title require a design review decision on a proposed or modified
development in the Tukwila South Overlay district.
F. Southcenter Design Criteria: The criteria contained in the Southcenter
Design Manual shall be used whenever the provisions of this title require a design review
decision on a proposed or modified development in the Tukwila Urban Center districts.
G. Shoreline Design Criteria. The criteria contained in the Shoreline Design
Guidelines found at TMC 18.44.090 shall be used whenever the provisions of this title
require a design review decision on a proposed or modified development in the Shoreline
Overlay District.
Section 16. Ordinance Nos. 2741 §4 (part) and 2765 §124, as codified at TMC
Chapter 18.60.070, "Multi -Family, Hotel, and Motel Design Review Criteria," are hereby
amended to read as follows:
18.60.070 Multi -Family, Mixed Use, Hotel, and Motel Design Review Criteria
A. Applicability: All development relating to the exterior of multifamily, mixed use,
hotel, or motel projects within any zoning district other than the Tukwila Urban Center or
Tukwila South Overlay shall comply with the design standards found in this section.
Structures and sites, or portions of structures and sites, that consist of parking structures
or areas for vehicular parking or movement, shall additionally be subject to the Vehicular
Areas and Parking Structure Criteria found at TMC 18.60.080. Projects meeting at least
one of the following criteria require a Type 2 Design Review permit application; for all
other projects, compliance will be determined during review of development permit
applications:
1. Any project that proposes alterations to existing structures with multi-
family or mixed uses, when the value of the project is equivalent to or greater than 50%
of the value of the existing structures proposed for alteration; or
2. Any project that proposes new structures that will contain multifamily or
m ixed-uses.
B. Standards:
1. Transparency: Minimum ground floor transparency requirements are as
follows:
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a. Commercial Frontages: A minimum of sixty (60) percent of the
area of all ground floor facades between two (2) and eight (8) feet in height above ground
level that face public streets shall be comprised of transparent doors or windows.
b. Residential Frontages: A minimum of twenty-five (25) percent
of the area of all walls along frontages must be comprised of transparent doors or
windows.
2. Walls: Walls, other than blind walls (see TMC 18.06.072), shall continue
patterns of openings and windows or, on ground floors, feature display windows. Blank
walls, as defined at TMC 18.06.071, and blind walls (when no active permit application
exists for an adjacent development to obscure the blind wall), shall include at least one
of the following treatments that cover a minimum of sixty (60) percent of the wall's surface:
a. Trellises with climbing vines or plant materials.
b. Planting beds at least 5 feet wide or raised planter beds at least
2 feet wide and 3 feet long. Plant species shall be chosen that will obscure or screen 60%
of the walls surface within 3 years.
c. Illuminated artwork, such as mosaics or murals.
d. Changed materials or textures with a minimum of 2 feet of
depth.
3. Entrances: One (1) entrance is required per 75 linear feet of frontage.
Walkways with a minimum width of 6 feet shall connect all entrances directly to a public
sidewalk.
4. Weather Protection: All building entrances and fifty (50) percent of the
area of all facades fronting along sidewalks shall provide continuous weather protection
over the sidewalk.
a. Weather protection may take the form of awnings, canopies, or
arbors, which extend from the building facade a minimum projection of six (6) feet over
the pedestrian area. Projection must be greater than eight (8) feet above sidewalk level.
5. Ground Floor Residential Uses: The following standards apply to
ground floor residential uses. An applicant may design ground floor residential units to a
modified specification from these standards without requesting a formal departure,
provided the modification is demonstrated to meet one of the following criteria: (a) for
units which are required by the underlying zoning district to be capable of being converted
to commercial space, the modification provides greater customer or business access for
the future commercial space, or (b) the modified design of the ground floor residential
area exhibits features that mitigate the conditions of a street frontage with undesirable
features such as constrained sidewalk widths or high levels of crime, and the modified
design increases livability and safety for future tenants and the community.
a. All residential units at ground level shall feature private
entrances from the street with porches or stoops. Each porch or stoop shall be a minimum
of 25 feet in area, with no dimension less than 5 feet.
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b. Finished floors for ground level residential uses shall be a
minimum of 18 inches above adjacent sidewalk heights.
c. Setback areas for ground floor residential uses that are not
occupied by stoops or walkways shall be landscaped and shall include a minimum of one
medium or large tree.
6. Building Facades: Street -facing facades shall include at least three of
the following design features at intervals no greater than 30 feet of facade. Buildings with
glass curtain wall systems may, as an alternative to the below features, feature projecting
horizontal and/or vertical mullions.
a. Varied building heights.
b. Window fenestration patterns or entries.
c. Vertical piers or columns.
d. Change in roofline form.
e. Vertical elements such as landscaped trellises or art.
f. Change in building height of at least 1 foot.
g. Bay windows, porches, canopies, chimneys.
h. Decorative cornices projecting at least 1 foot. Cornices shall
extend along all frontages of the building.
i. Changes in colors or materials.
7. Materials: The following exterior materials shall not be used unless not
visible from adjacent streets, properties, or to occupants of the building or site:
a. Non -mortared brick veneers.
b. Reflective metal siding.
c. Simulated stone with contradictory finishes, such as straight-line
joints.
d. Plywood panel siding.
e. Plain (non -decorative) concrete block, unless on a blind wall.
8. Corners: Building corners at intersections of any existing or new streets
shall feature one of the following design elements, which shall extend a minimum of 10
horizontal feet along each corner facade:
a. Corner towers, where a separate, relatively slender mass of the
building rises above the height of the adjacent building mass by at least 10 feet. The
corner tower shall extend a minimum of 10 horizontal feet along each corner facade.
b. Projecting or recessed corner entrances, with at least 10 feet of
offset. The area that is projecting or recessed shall extend a minimum of 10 horizontal
feet along each corner facade.
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c. Angled corners, where a facade at least 20 feet wide faces towards
the middle of the intersection.
9. Waste Disposal Areas and Loading Docks:
a. All entrances to waste disposal areas, loading docks, and storage
areas shall be located on a non -street facing facade, if one exists.
b. Waste disposal areas visible from any non -alley street, pathway,
public or private plaza, or public parking area, shall be screened with landscaping on the
sides and rear and shall be surrounded by a durable wall or fence at least 6 feet high.
Chain link fencing is not permitted.
c. Collection points shall be located and configured such that the
enclosure gate swing does not obstruct pedestrian or vehicle traffic and does not require
that a hauling truck project into any non -alley street.
10. Utility Apparatus:
a. Utility meters, electrical conduit and other utility apparatus shall be
located in areas that are not visible from any non -alley street, pathway, public or private
plaza, or public parking area, or shall be screened with landscaping or architectural
features.
b. Rooftop mechanical equipment shall be screened such that they are
not visible from public streets or sidewalks within 300 feet of the subject property, unless
from a point of view greater than 10 feet above the finished site grade of the subject
property.
11. Lighting: Exterior lighting shall meet the following standards:
a. Exterior walls and landscaping, if lit, shall be illuminated indirectly by
concealing light features with the building or landscaping. Facade uplighting is
encouraged.
b. Illumination level of 1 footcandle shall be provided in all pedestrian
areas, including building entries, along walkways, parking areas, and other public areas.
Stairways may feature integrated lighting elements.
c. All public and residential entrances shall feature illumination.
d. Lighting shall be shielded and cut off to prevent light spillover and
glare on adjacent properties.
e. Large areas shall be illuminated with multiple low -intensity light
sources rather than single high -intensity light sources.
f. Pole lights shall be no taller than 35 feet above a 36-inch base in
parking lots and traffic areas and no taller than 12 feet in pedestrian areas.
g. The following outdoor lighting equipment is prohibited:
(1) Lighting that flashes, chases, changes color, or changes
intensity for any purpose other than serving as a safety light; and
(2) Laser lighting.
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h. The correlated color temperature of all outdoor lighting shall be
between 3000 and 6000 Kelvin with tolerance within the ANSI standards.
C. Departures from Standards: As part of a Type 2 Design Review permit
application, an applicant may request consideration of any architectural or site design that
does not strictly comply with the design standards of this chapter. Nothing in this section
prohibits an applicant from applying for a variance, pursuant to TMC 18.72. An applicant
shall submit a detailed narrative that clearly articulates the reasons for seeking a
departure. When considering a request for a departure, the Department shall confirm that
the proposed departure meets the following evaluation standards:
1. The proposed departure does not conflict with any requirements other
than those found in TMC 18.60.070; and
2. The proposed departure, if granted, would help accomplish the goals of
the Comprehensive Plan to a similar or greater extent as would strict compliance with the
codified standards; and
3. The proposed departure is necessary due to unique design features of the
proposed site or structure; and
4. The proposed development requesting a departure has obtained a
minimum of 1 development incentive point in accordance with TMC 18.47, "Development
Incentive Program".
Section 17. Regulations Established. TMC Section 18.60.080, "Vehicular Areas
and Parking Structure Design Review Criteria," is hereby established to read as follows:
18.60.080 Vehicular Areas and Parking Structure Design Review Criteria
A. Applicability:
1. In addition to the requirements in each individual zoning district and any
other adopted City standards, all surface parking areas, driveways, or other areas for
vehicle storage or movements within the HDR, RCC, NCC, and RC zoning districts shall
be subject to TMC 18.60.080.6.1, "Vehicular Areas".
2. All proposed or modified parking structures shall be subject to TMC
18.60.080.6.2, "Parking Structures".
B. Standards
1. Vehicular Areas:
a. No off-street surface parking shall be located between a building and
any front property line. Surface parking lots greater than five thousand (5,000) square
feet should provide clearly identifiable, lighted, and landscaped pedestrian paths that
connect each aisle of parking to the building entrance or the sidewalk system. The lighting
shall be pedestrian scaled. The landscaping shall consist of shrubs and groundcovers
and may include trees. Pedestrian paths shall be raised to curb height when crossing
streets or vehicle pathways and shall be at least six (6) feet in width through the surface
parking lot to building entrance. Paths shall contain continuous landscaped areas of at
2025 Legislation: TIB Zoning
Version: 10/16/25
Staff: I. Gloor
Page 26 of 29
least three (3) feet wide on at least one side of the path except where a pathway crosses
vehicular pathways.
b. Sidewalks and walkways shall continue at curb height across all drive
aisles and vehicular entrances. The surface of pedestrian crossings at drive aisles or
vehicular entrances shall be surfaced with decorative pavers, brick, stamped concrete, or
any other material that reinforces pedestrian priority while obtaining compliance with the
standards of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
c. Applicants shall demonstrate that the overall design of the project
and site meets the following standards for vehicular access:
(1) Vehicular access points have been reduced to the minimum
quantity and width possible; and
(2) Vehicular access points are sited at the furthest possible
location from street corners; and
(3) All shared vehicular access point options with neighboring sites
have been explored, and if not utilized, are incapable of being utilized due to
circumstances outside of the control of the applicant or property owner; and
(4) The location of all proposed vehicular access points requires
the least alteration to existing features compliant with these or other Tukwila standards,
including, but not limited to street trees, landscaping areas, utility infrastructure, bike
facilities, and pedestrian pathways or sidewalks; and
(5) The location of all proposed vehicular access points requires
the fewest direct access points to or from any street designated as an arterial by the
Comprehensive Plan that are possible for the proposed project. Applicants shall
demonstrate that alternative, non -arterial vehicular access points are incapable of being
utilized or cannot adequately serve the site, due to circumstances outside of the control
of the applicant or property owner.
2. Parking Structures:
a. Structured parking shall not be permitted to occupy more than 50%
of any first -floor street facade visible from a public right of way or adjacent property. All
above ground structured parking shall be subject to the following standards:
(1) Architectural features present on parking structures shall be
consistent with exterior elements and features of the primary structure.
(2) All exterior walls of parking structures, other than blind walls,
shall be considered blank walls, and shall be subject to the requirements of TMC
18.60.070. 6.2.
Section 18. Ordinance Nos. 2741 §4 (part) and 2765 §125, as codified at TMC
Chapter 18.60.080, "Tukwila South Design Criteria," are hereby renumbered as TMC
Chapter 18.60.090.
2025 Legislation: TIB Zoning
Version: 10/16/25
Staff: I. Gloor
Page 27 of 29
Section 19. Ordinance No. 2741 §4 (part), as codified at TMC Chapter 18.60.090,
"Commercial Redevelopment Areas Approval Procedures and Criteria," is hereby
renumbered as TMC Chapter 18.60.100 and amended to read as follows:
18.60.100Commercial Redevelopment Areas
A. Intent: The intent of this section is to create a more uniform commercial district
along the Tukwila International Boulevard corridor and to better integrate mixed use or
commercial developments with the adjacent neighborhoods. Development within the five
identified commercial redevelopment areas that is not in accordance with the underlying
zone's uses and standards may be approved by the Director if the development complies
with this section.
B. Eligibility and Process: Any CR or HDR zoned parcel within a Commercial
Redevelopment Area (CRA) shall be permitted to aggregate with, via a lot consolidation,
binding site improvement plan, and/or development agreement, any adjacent parcel that
is within the NCC or RC zoning districts. The permitted uses and development standards
of the subject parcel within the CRA shall be those of the adjacent RC or NCC zoning
district to which the CR or HDR zoned properties are being aggregated.
C. Criteria of Approval: The development shall include at least one parcel that
fronts on Tukwila International Boulevard. It may include any number of additional
adjacent parcels within the CRA.
Section 20. Ordinance Nos. 2741 §4 (part) and 2765 §127, codified at TMC Section
18.60.100, "Expiration of Design Review Permits," are hereby renumbered and recodified
at TMC 18.60.110.
Section 21. Ordinance No. 2741 §4 (part), as codified at TMC Figure 18-3, "Building
Height Exception Areas," is hereby amended to read as referenced in Exhibit A.
Section 22. Ordinance Nos. 2741 §4 (part) and 2765 §135, as codified at TMC Figure
18-7, "Required Number of Parking Spaces for Automobiles and Bicycles," are hereby
amended to read as referenced in Exhibit B.
Section 23. Ordinance No. 2741 §4 (part), as codified at TMC Figure 18-9,
"Commercial Redevelopment Areas in the Tukwila International Boulevard Corridor," is
hereby amended to read as referenced in Exhibit C.
Section 24. Ordinance No. 2741 §4 (part), as codified at TMC Figure 18-10, "City of
Tukwila Zoning Map," is hereby amended to read as referenced in Exhibit D.
Section 25. Ordinance No. 2756 §4 (part), as codified at TMC Table 18-2, "Tukwila
Urban Center Land Uses Allowed By District," is hereby repealed.
Section 26. Ordinance Nos. 2741 §4 (part) and 2765 §133, as codified at TMC Table
18-5, "Provision of Parking", are hereby repealed.
2025 Legislation: TIB Zoning
Version: 10/16/25
Staff: I. Gloor
Page 28 of 29
Section 27. Ordinance Nos. 2741 §4 (part) and 2765 §134, as codified at TMC Table
18-6, "Land Uses Allowed by District", are hereby amended to read as referenced in Exhibit
E.
Section 28. 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 correction of clerical errors;
references to other local, state or federal laws, codes, rules, or regulations; or ordinance
numbering and section/subsection numbering.
Section 29. Severability. If any section, subsection, paragraph, sentence, clause
or phrase of this ordinance or its application to any person or situation should be held to
be invalid or unconstitutional for any reason by a court of competent jurisdiction, such
invalidity or unconstitutionality shall not affect the validity or constitutionality of the
remaining portions of this ordinance or its application to any other person or situation.
Section 30. Effective Date. This ordinance or a summary thereof shall be published
in the official newspaper of the City, and shall take effect and be in full force five (5) days
after passage and publication as provided by law.
PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON, at
a Regular Meeting thereof this v)4k day of 0 , 2025.
ATTEST/AUTHENTICATED:
Andy Youn-Barnett, CMC, City Clerk Gh mas McLeod, M
APPROVED AS TO FORM BY:
Office of the City Attorney
Filed with the City Clerk: JO -15t-2-.5"
Passed by the City Council: /0-2-0-2-5-
Published: 70 - 3
Effective Date: to -
Ordinance Number:
Exhibit A: Figure 18-3, "Special Height Exception Areas"
Exhibit B: Figure 18-7, "Minimum Automobile and Bicycle Parking Requirements"
Exhibit C: Figure 18-9, "Commercial Redevelopment Areas"
Exhibit D: Figure 18-10, "City of Tukwila Zoning Map"
Exhibit E: Table 18-6, "Land Uses Allowed by District"
2025 Legislation: TIB Zoning
Version: 10/16/25
Staff: I. Gloor
Page 29 of 29
City of Tukwila Public Notice of Ordinance Adoption for Ordinance 2770-2771.
On October 20, 2025, the City Council of the City of Tukwila, Washington, adopted the
following ordinance, the main points of which are summarized by title as follows:
ORDINANCE 2770: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NOS. 2741 §4 (PART),
2762 §2, 2765 §11 (PART) & §13; 2765 §120, §122, §124, §125, §127, §134 & §135 AS
CODIFIED AT VARIOUS SECTIONS OF TUKWILA MUNICIPAL CODE (TMC) TITLE 18,
"ZONING"; REENACTING TMC CHAPTERS 18.22 & 18.24; ESTABLISHING TMC
CHAPTER 18.47 & TMC SECTION 18.60.080; REPEALING VARIOUS ORDINANCES
AS CODIFIED AT TMC CHAPTER 18.43; REPEALING TABLES 18-2 AND 18-5; TO
AMEND & ESTABLISH REGULATIONS TO SUPPORT DEVELOPMENT IN THE
TUKWILA INTERNATIONAL BOULEVARD DISTRICT; PROVIDING FOR
SEVERABILITY; AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
ORDINANCE 2771: AN ORDINANCE GRANTING TO LEVEL 3 COMMUNICATIONS
LLC, A DELAWARE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, AND ITS AFFILIATES,
SUCCESSORS, AND ASSIGNS, THE RIGHT, PRIVILEGE, AUTHORITY AND
NONEXCLUSIVE FRANCHISE FOR FIVE YEARS, TO CONSTRUCT, MAINTAIN,
OPERATE, REPLACE, AND REPAIR A TELECOMMUNICATIONS NETWORK IN,
ACROSS, OVER, ALONG, UNDER, THROUGH, AND BELOW CERTAIN DESIGNATED
PUBLIC RIGHTS -OF -WAY OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA; PROVIDING FOR
SEVERABILITY; AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
The full text of these ordinances will be provided upon request.
Andy Youn-Barnett, City Clerk
Published Seattle Times: October 23, 2025
Special Height Exception Areas
Figure 18-3
Up to 10 stories allowed
Up to 4 stories allowed
Up to 6 stories allowed
Limited to no more than 6
stories
0.5 1 Miles
8/11/2025
Figure 18-7: Minimum Automobile and Bicycle Parking Requirements
All Uses
Within Half a Mile from a Major Transit Stopl
Greater than Half a Mile from a Major Transit Stopl
Residential Uses which:
• Meet the definition of affordable (RCW 36.70A.030); or
• Limit occupancy to senior citizens or those with disabilities;
or
• Meet the definition of Accessory Dwelling Units; or
• Are permitted as emergency or permanent supportive
housing; or
• Meet the definition of Co -Living Housing; or
• Contain less than 1,200 sf of interior livable floor area.
Residential Uses which:
• Do not meet one of the criteria above; and
• Meet the definition of middle housing or multi -family
housing.
Residential Uses which:
• Do not meet one of the criteria above; and
• Meet the definition of single-family housing.
Commercial and Industrial Uses which:
• Serve alcohol for on -site consumption; or
• Contain less than 3,000 sf of usable floor area (UFA); or
• Are childcare uses, such as commercial daycares.
All Other Commercial and Industrial Uses which:
• Do not require conditional or unclassified use permits
All Uses which:
• Do not require conditional or unclassified use permits; and
• Will be sited within existing buildings that are proposed for
new occupancy or change of use; or
• Are permitted as accessory uses; or
• Are Transportation, Communication, and Infrastructure
Uses; or
• Are Civic and Institutional Uses.
All Other Uses which:
• Require conditional or unclassified use permits
See TMC 18.56 for Off -Street Parking and Loading Regulations.
Nothing in this table exempts new construction from compliance with the requirements for
parking spaces permanently marked for the exclusive use of individuals with disabilities, in
compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
1See TMC 18.06.556, "Major Transit Stop".
None
None
1 vehicle parking space
dwelling unit
2 vehicle parking spaces
dwelling unit
None
1 vehicle parking space
1000 sf of UFA
None
The provision of parking may be
required as a condition of
approval to mitigate potential
transportation impacts.
Residential Uses:
Civic and
Institutional
Uses:
Commercial
Uses:
Colleges,
Universities, or
Schools
Cultural Facilities and
Religious Institutions
Fire & Police Stations
Hospitals
with on -site
customers
no on -site customers
Industrial Uses with:
habitual transportation demands
Transportation Facilities which:
are not an accessory use
All Other Uses:
1 space / dwelling unit
3 spaces / classroom
1 space / 4,000 sf of UFA
1 space / 5,000 sf of UFA
1 space / 4,000 sf of UFA
1 space / 5,000 sf of UFA
1 space / 5,000 sf of UFA
1 space / 5,000 sf of UFA
20 spaces / facility
1 space / 2,000 sf of UFA
2 spaces / facility
1 space / 10,000 sf of
UFA
1 space / 1,000 sf UFA
1 space / 10,000 sf of
UFA
1 space / 20,000 sf of
UFA
10 spaces / facility
The provision of bicycle parking may be required as a
condition of approval to mitigate potential transportation
impacts.
See TMC 18.56.130 for bicycle parking standards.
lAny fraction shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number.
2The Director shall have the discretion to reduce the amount of required secure bicycle
parking if it can be demonstrated that the occupancy of the use will be limited to a group
that is less likely to travel by bicycle. The age of occupants does not, on its own, serve to
demonstrate this.
3The Director, in consultation with the Director of Public Works, shall have the discretion to
require more bicycle parking spaces based on the following factors: Area topography;
pattern and volume of expected bicycle users; nearby residential and employment density;
proximity to a trails system and other existing and planned bicycle facilities; projected
transit ridership and expected access to transit by bicycle; and other relevant
transportation and land use information.
Commercial Redevelopment Areas
Figure 18-9
14;
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66
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plkuo
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Commercial
Redevelopment
Area
Zoning Districts
CR
HDR
NCC
RC
8/11/2025
art e
•
•
niin corll°wryrrate
roc
Zoning Districts and Overlays
CR - Community Residential
HDR - High Density Residential
MUO - Mixed Use Office
O - Office
RCC - Residential Commercial Center
NCC - Neighborhood Commercial Center
RC - Regional Commercial District
RCM - Regional Commercial Mixed -Use
C/LI - Commercial/Light Industrial
LI - Light Industrial
HI - Heavy Industrial
MIC/L - Manufacturing Industrial Center (Light)
[if MIC/H - Manufacturing Industrial Center (Heavy)
TVS - Tukwila Valley South
TUC-P - Pond
TUC -RC - Regional Center
MO TUC -CC - Commercial Corridor
TUC-WP - Workplace
TUC-TOD - Transit Oriented Development
Tukwila South Overlay
Manufacturing Ind. Center Overlay
Public Recreation Overlay
i/A
r _ ; Potential Annexation Area
City of Tukwila
Zoning Map
Figure 18-10.
art] e
u t ''cce enter Blv
h
ltr
Created 8/6/2025 0
nit
0.5 1 M i
� I
Exhibit A — Table 18-6: Land Uses Allowed by District
Any reference to Table 18-2 is understood to refer to Table 18-6. See Figure 18-1 for the Shoreline Use Matrix.
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Adult Day Cares
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
P
Adult Entertainment
subject to location restrictions'
PPP
P
PP
P
Amusement Parks
C
C
CC
C
P
Animal Shelters & Kennels
subject to additional State & local regulations. no permit
required for fewer than 4 cats/dogs.
C
C
CC
C
C
C
Animal Veterinaries
including associated temporary indoor boarding. access
to an arterial required,
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
PPP
Bed & Breakfast Lodging
no size limit specified
C
P
P
P
P
Bed & Breakfast Lodging
not more than twelve guests'
C
C
P
P
P
Cannabis Producers or Processors
State issued license required
P
P
P19
Cannabis Retailers
State issued license required
P
P
P
P19
P
P
Day Care Centers
PP
P
PPP
P
PPPPPPP
P
P
PPP
Drive -In Theatres
C
C
CC
C
Drive-Throughs
A
AAA
A
AA
A
A
A42
A
A
Eating & Drinking Establishments
P
P
PPP
P
PPPPPPP
P
P
PP
P43
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
Level 1 & Level 2
AAA
A
AA
A
A
AAA
A
AP
P
A
A
A
A
A
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
Level 3 & battery exchange stations & rapid charging stations
see TMC 18.50.140
AAA
A
AAA
P
PPP
P
PP
P
A
P42
A
A
A
Extended -Stay Hotels
P
P
PP
P
P
P
P
P
Updated 10/28/2025 (Scrivener's Error)
Page 1
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Farming & Farm -Related Activities
P
P
Greenhouses or Nurseries
commercial
P
P
P
PP
P
P
Home Occupations
see TMC 18.50.240
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
Hotels
P34
P
PPP
CCP
P
P
P
P
Laundries
commercial
P
PPP
P
P
Laundries
self -serve, dry cleaning, tailor, dyeing
P
P
PPP
P
PPPPPPP
P
P
PPP
Morticians & Funeral Homes
P
P
PP
P
C
Motels
P
PPP
CCP
P
P
P
P
Nightclubs
P
P
PP
P
P
P
P41
P
P
Offices
including professional, outpatient medical/dental, government services,
research, banking, real estate, or
P22
P
P22
PP
P
P
P
P
P9
C10
P24
C25
P
P
P
P
PPP
Parking
commercial & principal or primary use
P7
P7
P36
P7
P7
P
P
P
P45
P45
P45
P45
P45
Pawnbrokers / Payday Lenders
C
P
PP
P
P
Recreation Facilities
commercial & indoor
maximum usable floor area of 10,000 square feet
P
P
PP
P
P
PP
C3
P
P
P
P
P
PPP
Recreation Facilities
commercial & indoor
no usable floor area maximum
CC
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Recreation Facilities
commercial & outdoor
C
C
C
C
P
Retail
General Retail & Services
P
p4
PPP
P
P
P
P
C3
C3
PP
P
P
PPP
Theaters
not including "Adult Entertainment Establishments"
PP
P
PPP
P
P31
P
P
P
Vehicle Fueling Stations
and typical appurtenances, including car washes
PPP
P
PP
P
P42
P
P
Vehicle Maintenance Facilities
not including vehicle fueling or major repair
P
PPPPPPP
P41
P
Updated 10/28/2025 (Scrivener's Error)
Page 2
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Vehicle Rental Facilities
non-CDL vehicles
P36
P
PPP
P
PP
P
P
P42
P
Vehicle Rental Facilities
CDL vehicles
PPP
P
PP
P
Vehicle Sales Lots'
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P42
P
P
Vehicle Storage (no customers onsite) does not include park -and -fly
operations
P
Continued next page
Updated 10/28/2025 (Scrivener's Error) Page 3
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Convalescent & Nursing Homes & Assisted Living Facilities
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Daycare Family Home (Family Child Care HomePand/or Adult Family
Homes
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
Diversion Facilities & Diversion Interim Services Facilities
south of Strander Blvd only
U
Domestic Shelters
PPP
P
Dormitories
accessory to permitted use
C
C
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
AA
A
A
A
A
Dwellings
Co -living Housing 52
P
P
PPP
P
P
P
P
P
P
P46
Dwellings
Cottage Housing
P
P
P
P
P
Dwellings
Courtyard Apartments
P
P
P
P
P
Dwellings
Detached Single Family
P
P
P47
P47
P47
P47
P
Dwellings
Detached Zero -Lot Line Units
P
P
P
P
Dwellings
Duplex, Triplex or Fourplex, Fiveplex or Townhouse4°
P
P
P
P
P
Dwellings
Multi -Family (mixed -use)
P
PPP
P
C15
P
P
P
P
P46
Dwellings
Multi -Family (single -use)
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P46
Dwellings
Senior Citizen Housing / Assisted Living Facility
P
60/a
P
60/a
P
P
P
60/a
C15
P
P
P
P
P46
Dwellings
Stacked Flat
P
P
P
P
P
Dwellings
Townhouses
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P46
Dwellings
Accessory
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
Emergency Housing & Emergency Shelters "
PP
PPPPPPP
P
P
P
Garages or Carports (private) not exceeding 1,500 square feet
A
Greenhouses & Storage Sheds (noncommercial) not exceeding 1,000
square feet
A
A
A
Manufactured & Mobile Home Parks "
P
Page 4
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PPP
P
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P
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P
PP
P
PPP
P46
Residences for Security or Maintenance Personnel
A
A
AAA
A
AAA
A
AA
A
Secure Community Transition Facilities 28
U
Tiny Home Villages
PPP
P
PPP
P
PPP
PP
Transitional Housing 38
PPP
P
PPP
P
PPP
P
PP
P
PPP
P46
Continued next page
Page 5
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U
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Cargo Containers
see TMC 18.50.060
A&S
A&S
A&S
A&S
A&S
P
P
P
P
P
A
Cement Manufacturing
UUU
U
U
U
Contractor Storage Yards
PPP
P
PP
Etching, Film Processing, Lithography, Printing & Publishing
P
PPP
P
PP
P
P
Hazardous Waste Treatment & Storage Facilities (off -site) (subject to
compliance with state siting criteria. See RCW
C
C
Heavy Equipment Repair & Salvage
PPP
P
PP
Industrial Uses, Heavy
not otherwise listed see TMC 18.06.452.
CCP
C
PC
Industrial Uses, Light
not otherwise listed see TMC 18.06.451
P
PPP
P
PP
P
P43
Internet Data/Telecommunication Centers
PPP
P
PP
P
Manufacturing and/or Assembly that Includes:
rock crushing / asphalt or concrete batching or mixing / stone cutting /
CCP
C
PC
C
Manufacturing, Refining or Storing:
highly volatile noxious or explosive products (less than tank car lots) such
as acids, petroleum products, oil or gas, matches, fertilizer or insecticides;
except for accessory
U
U
U
U
Medical & Dental Laboratories
P
P
A
P
P
PP
P
P
P
P
P
P
Minor Expansion of an Existing Warehouse "
S
Removal & Processing of:
sand, gravel, rock, peat, black soil & other natural deposits together with
UUU
U
U
U
Research & Development Facilities
P
P
Sales & Rental Facilities
of Heavy Machinery & Equipment 50
PPP
P
PP
P
Salvage & Wrecking Operations
P49
P49
P
P49
P
C
P49
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Page 6
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materials allowed to be manufactured or handled within facilities
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any materials not otherwise listed. 5.
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Tow -Truck Operations
subject to all additional State & local regulations
PP
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Truck Terminals
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Page 7
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except emergency sites
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Park & Ride Lots
operated by a public agency
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for any use not otherwise listed
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Parking Areas
for Municipal Uses & Police Stations
CCC
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Radio, Television, Microwave,
or Observation Stations & Towers
CCC
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Railroad Freight or Classification Yards
U
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including lead, spur, loading or storage
PPP
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P
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refuse & garbage, operated by a public agency
U
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bus and/or rail
CCC
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Utility Facilities
above ground
CCC
C
CCC
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under ground
PPP
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Vertical Take -Off & Landing Pads
as accessory uses
C48
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Wireless Telecommunications Facilities
see TMC 18.58
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Continued next page
Page 8
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including Multipurpose Arenas
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including Libraries, Museums, Art Galleries, Performing Arts Centers
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publicly owned& operated
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Parks, Trails, Community Centers, Sports Courts
not including Amusement Parks, Golf Courses, or Commercial Recreation
P44
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Religious Institutions
less than 750 sf of assembly area
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Religious Institutions
greater than 750 sf of assembly area
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Sanitariums
or similar institutes
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Schools
public or private, elementary through high school
CCC
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Page 9
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Note: For uses not specifically listed in Table 18-6, the Director of Community Development will determine whether the use may be permitted in a zoning district. The Director
shall consider whether the proposed use is:
a. Similar in nature to and compatible with other uses permitted out right within a similar zone; and
b. Consistent with the stated purpose of the zone; and
c. Consistent with the policies of the Tukwila Comprehensive Plan.
1. Adult entertainment establishments are permitted, subject to the following location restrictions:
a. No adult entertainment establishment shall be allowed within the following distances from the following specified uses, areas or zones, whether such uses, areas or
zones are located within or outside the City limits:
(1) In or within 1,000 feet of any CR, HDR, MUO, 0, NCC, RC, RCM or TUC zone districts or any other residentially -zoned property;
(2) In or within one-half mile of:
(a) Public or private school with curricula equivalent to elementary, junior or senior high schools, or any facility owned or operated by such schools; and
(b) Care centers, preschools, nursery schools or other child care facilities;
(3) In or within 1,000 feet of:
(a) public park, trail or public recreational facility; or
(b) church, temple, synagogue or chapel; or
(c) public library.
b. The distances specified in this section shall be measured by following a straight line from the nearest point of the property parcel upon which the proposed use
is to be located, to the nearest point of the parcel of property or land use district boundary line from which the proposed land use is to be separated.
c. No adult entertainment establishment shall be allowed to locate within 1,000feet of an existing adult entertainment establis hment. The distance specified in this section
shall be measured by following a straight line between the nearest points of public entry into each establishment.
2. No dismantling of cars or travel trailers or sale of used parts allowed.
3. Retail sales and services are limited to uses of a type and size that clearly intend to serve other permitted uses and/or the employees of those uses.
4. Retail sales as part of a planned mixed -use development where at least 50% of gross leasable floor area development is for office use; no auto -oriented retail sales (e.g.
drive-ins, service stations).
5. Bed and breakfast facilities, provided:
a. the manager/owner must live on -site,
b. the maximum number of residents, either permanent or temporary, at any one time is twelve,
c. two on -site parking spaces for the owner and permanent residents and one additional on -site parking space is provided for each bedroom rented to customers,
d. the maximum length of continuous stay by a guest is 14 days,
e. breakfast must be offered on -site to customers, and
f. all necessary permits or approvals are obtained from the Health Department.
6. Colleges and universities with primarily vocational curriculum if associated with an established aviation, manufacturing or industrial use.
Page 10
7. Commercial parking; provided it is:
a. a structured parking facility located within a structure having substantial ground floor retail or commercial activities and designed such that the pedestrian and
commercial environments are not negatively impacted by the parking use; or
b. a surface parking facility located at least 175 feet from adjacent arterial streets and behind a building that, combined with appropriate Type III landscaping, provides
effective visual screening from adjacent streets.
9. Offices including, but not limited to, software development and similar uses, financial services, schools for professional and vocational education if associated with
an established aviation, manufacturing or industrial use, less than 20,000 square feet. This category does not include outpatient medical and dental clinics.
10. Offices including, but not limited to, software development and similar uses, financial services, schools for professional and vocational education if associated with
an established aviation, manufacturing or industrial use, 20,000 square feet and over.
11. Correctional institution operated by the City of Tukwila.
12. Family child care homes, provided the facility shall be licensed by the Department of Early Learning or its successor agency and shall provide a safe passenger loading zone.
15. Dwelling - Multi -family units (Max. 22.0 units/acre except senior citizen housing which is allowed to 100 units/acre, as a mixed -use development that is non -industrial in
nature); must be located on property adjacent to and not greater than 500 feet from the Green River, Tukwila Pond, or Minkler Pond.
16. See TMC Section 18.50.220 for accessory dwelling unit standards.
17. Manufactured/mobile home park, meeting the following requirements:
a. the development site shall comprise not less than two contiguous acres;
b. overall development density shall not exceed eight dwelling units per acre;
c. vehicular access to individual dwelling units shall be from the interior of the park; and
d. emergency access shall be subject to the approval of the Tukwila Fire Department.
19. Where the underlying zoning is HI orTVS.
20. Minor expansion of an existing warehouse if the following criteria are met:
a. The area of the proposed expansion may not exceed 5% of the floor area of the existing warehouse; and
b. The proposed expansion will not increase any building dimension that is legally non -conforming; and
c. Only one minor expansion may be permitted per warehouse in existence as of the date of adoption of the Tukwila South Project Development Agreement; and
d. The proposed expansion must be constructed within two years of the date of approval; and
e. The proposed development shall be compatible generally with the surrounding land uses in terms of traffic and pedestrian circulation, building and site design; and
f. All measures have been taken to minimize the possible adverse impacts the proposed expansion may have on the area in which it is located.
22. Offices, when such offices occupy no more than the first two stories of the building or basement and floor above.
24. Offices; must be associated with another permitted use (e.g., administrative offices for a manufacturing company present within the MIC).
25. Offices not associated with other permitted uses and excluding medical/dental clinics, subject to the following location and size restrictions:
a. New Office Developments:
(1) New office developments shall not exceed 100,000 square feet of gross floor area per lot that was legally established prior to 09/20/2003.
(2) No new offices shall be allowed on lots that abut the Duwamish River and are north of the turning basin. The parcels that are ineligible for stand-alone
office uses are shown in Figure 18-12.
b. An existing office development established prior to 12/11/1995 (the effective date of the Comprehensive Plan) that exceeds the maximum size limitations may be
recognized as a conforming Conditional Use under the provisions of this code. An existing office development established prior to 12/11/1995 (the effective date of
the Comprehensive Plan) may convert to a stand-alone office use subject to the provisions of this code.
28. Secure community transition facility, subject to the following location restrictions:
a. No secure community transition facility shall be allowed within the specified distances from the following uses, areas or zones, whether such uses, areas or
zones are located within or outside the City limits:
(1) In or within 1,000 feet of any residential zone.
(2) Adjacent to, immediately across a street or parking lot from, or within the line of sight of a "risk potential activity/facility" as defined in RCW 71.09.020 as
amended, that include:
(a) Public and private schools;
Page 11
(b) School bus stops;
(c) Licensed daycare and licensed preschool facilities;
(d) Public parks, publicly dedicated trails, and sports fields;
(e) Recreational and community centers;
(f) Churches, synagogues, temples and mosques; and
(g) Public libraries.
(3) One mile from any existing secure community transitional facility or correctional institution.
b. No secure community transition facility shall be allowed on any isolated parcel which is otherwise considered eligible by applying the criteria listed under TMC
18.38.050-12.a, but is completely surrounded by parcels ineligible for the location of such facilities.
c. The distances specified in TMC 18.38.050-12.a shall be measured as specified under Department of Social and Health Services guidelines established pursuant to
RCW 71.09.285, which is by following a straight line from the nearest point of the property parcel upon which the secure community transitional facility is to be
located, to the nearest point of the parcel of property or land use district boundary line from which the proposed land use is to be separated.
d. The parcels eligible for the location of secure community transition facilities by applying the siting criteria listed above and information available as of August 19, 2002,
are shown in Figure 18-11, "Eligible Parcels for Location of Secure Community Transition Facilities." Any changes in the development pattern and the location of risk
sites/facilities overtime shall be taken into consideration to determine if the proposed site meets the siting criteria at the time of the permit application.
29. Private stable, if located not less than 60 feet from front lot line nor less than 30 feet from a side or rear lot line. It shall provide capacity for not more than one horse, mule or
pony for each 20,000 square feet of stable and pasture area, but not more than a total of two of the above mentioned animals shall be allowed on the same lot.
31. Theaters for live performances, not including adult entertainment establishments and movie theaters with three or fewer screens are permitted. Movie theaters with more
than three screens will require a Special Permission Permit. Approval of the Special Permission permit will require the applicant to demonstrate through an economic analysis
that the theater:
a. will not have a significant financial impact on any other theater in Tukwila; and
b. will be compatible generally with the surrounding land uses in terms of traffic and pedestrian circulation, building and site design; and
c. will be substantially in conformance with the goals and policies of the Comprehensive Land Use Policy Plan and the Tukwila South Master Plan;
d. has taken all measures to minimize the possible adverse impacts the proposed theater may have on the area in which it is located.
34. Permitted if the following are provided: a full -service restaurant and a Class A liquor license, 24-hour staffed reception, all rooms accessed off interior hallways or lobby,
and a minimum 90 rooms.
36. South of SR 518 only. No surface parking.
37. Subject to the criteria and conditions at TMC 18.50.250 and 18.50.270.
38. Subject to the criteria and conditions at TMC 18.50.260 and 18.50.270.
39. Tiny Home Villages are permitted, subject to the criteria and conditions at TMC Sections 18.50.240 and 18.50.270.
40. Subject to meeting underlying density allowances for unit type.
41. New businesses are limited to locations within the Freeway Frontage Corridor. See additional design standards in the Southcenter Design Manual.
42. East of the Green River only.
43. 3,500 sf max per use.
44. Public only.
45. Day use only.
46. Only on properties fronting the Green River or Minkler Pond.
47. One detached single family dwelling per existing lot permitted in MUO, 0, RCC, TVS.
48. South of SR 518 only.
49. Operations must be entirely enclosed within a building.
50. Screening in accordance with TMC 18.52 required.
51. Permitted up to a height of 20 feet with a front yard setback of 25 feet, and to a height of 50 feet with a front yard setback of 100 feet. Security required.
52. Permitted only on parcels for which the underlying zoning district permits 6 or greater dwelling units.
Page 12
SCRIVENER'S ERROR NOTIFICATION FORM
Requested By Jennifer Marshall, Deputy City Clerk
Ordinance No. 2770
Date of Passage October 20, 2025
Brief Explanatory Statement
1. Ordinance No. 2769, updated the Tukwila Municipal Code (TMC) Chapter 18.06, "Definitions,"
Chapter 18115.210, "Marijuana Related Uses" to update all references to "marijuana" to
"cannabis".
2. Ordinance No. 2770, Section 27, Exhibit B/Table 18-6 makes two references to "marijuana".
As Passed
1. Ordinance No. 2770, Section 27, amended Table 18-6 "Land Uses Allowed by District" per
Exhibit E. The table contained in the exhibit utilized "marijuana" in the table when recent
ordinances changed other references to "cannabis".
Marijuana Producers or Processors
State issued License required
Marijuana Retailers
State issued license required
Correction Needed
1. Ordinance No. 2770, Exhibit E (Table 18-6) should be updated to use "Cannabis" in place of
"Marijuana" in two instances. Proposed edits:
.utuimptlll LIPiro•ducers or Processors
State issued License required
canng„..1112.1a Retailers
State issued License required
City Attorney Review
Z Approved as Scrivener's Error
❑ Amendment Needed to Ordinance
City Attorney Comments
The two corrections in Table 18-6, specifically changing marijuana references to cannabis, may be
made as scrivener's errors, as these words were unintentionally missed during the recent update.