Concerning residential development in commercial and mixed use zones (SB 6026)
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Washington
2026
Requires larger Washington cities and counties to allow homes in commercial and mixed-use zones. They can't force ground-floor retail or extra special permits for housing in those areas. More apartments and condos could be built near jobs and shops, speeding approvals and lowering costs. Exceptions apply near refineries in heavy industry, historic sites, critical environmental areas, shorelines, and outside urban growth areas. After one year, state rules override conflicting local codes.
Vote Yes on this bill if you want the state to require cities to allow homes in commercial and mixed-use zones, remove mandatory ground-floor retail and special permits for housing, speed approvals, and increase housing options near jobs and transit while maintaining key safety and environmental exceptions.
Organizations that support this bill may include housing affordability advocates, pro-housing coalitions, home builders and developers, construction labor unions, and smart-growth or transit advocacy groups.
Supported By
Vote No on this bill if you want cities to keep control over commercial-only zoning, continue requiring mixed-use or ground-floor retail for new buildings, preserve stricter local design rules and discretionary permits, and limit residential growth in those areas.
Organizations that oppose this bill may include local government associations, neighborhood groups concerned about parking and height, historic preservation advocates, and retail or business groups that favor keeping commercial-only zones and ground-floor retail mandates.
