Chapter 21.85
RESIDENTIAL CARE FACILITIES

Sections:

21.85.010    Purpose—Intent.

21.85.020    Housing for people with functional disabilities.

21.85.010 Purpose—Intent.

Housing facilities for special needs populations are protected under provisions of the Federal Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988. The location of such facilities is critical to the well-being of special members of the community, and fulfills a needed community service. It is the purpose of this chapter to facilitate the siting of residential care facilities and adult family homes. (Ord. 2005-02 (part))

21.85.020 Housing for people with functional disabilities.

A. Housing for people with functional disabilities, as defined herein, shall be considered a residential use of property for zoning purposes. They shall be an allowable use in all areas zoned for residential or commercial purposes and shall be subject to the following requirements:

1. Meet Washington State licensing requirements;

2. Comply with all building, fire safety, and health code requirements;

3. Lot size, building size, setbacks, and lot coverage conform to the standards of the zoning district, except if the structure is a legal nonconforming structure;

4. A safe passenger loading area must be provided;

5. Signage, if any, will conform to Section 21.70.110 of this title.

B. The conversion of an existing residential structure to housing for people with functional disabilities shall not be deemed a change of use or an abandonment or discontinuity of the prior use of the structure, if such structure constituted a prior nonconforming use. (Ord. 2005-02 (part))