Chapter 17.80
RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION OF EXISTING STRUCTURES

Sections:

17.80.010    Residential conversion of existing structures.

17.80.010 Residential conversion of existing structures.

This section is applicable to properties located in the neighborhood commercial, central business, general commercial, light commercial, waterfront mixed use, and mixed-use districts.

A. The allowable housing unit density may be up to 50 percent greater than what is allowed in the underlying district if constructed entirely within an existing building envelope.

B. The permit level of review shall be the same as the level applicable to residential development in the underlying zone. Emergency housing and transitional housing may have a different permit level of review.

C. No additional parking spaces shall be required beyond the existing spaces.

D. Exterior design or architectural features are not mandatory unless they are necessary for health and safety of the residential use of the interior of the building.

E. Housing units may be authorized in any specific part of the building unless ground floor commercial is required by the underlying zoning or a zoning overlay.

F. A building permit cannot be denied due to a nonconformity regarding parking, height, setbacks, elevator size for gurney transport, or modulation unless the administrator makes written findings that the nonconformity is causing significant detriment to the surrounding area.

G. Neither a transportation concurrency study under RCW 36.70A.070 nor an environmental study under Chapter 43.21C RCW can be required based on the addition of residential units within the existing building. (Ord. 26-02 § 5 (Exh. A), 2026)