The Legislature’s appetite for the long-running discussion about how best to facilitate development of accessory dwelling units (ADUs), or mother-in-law apartments, continues with three prefiled bills starting off the 2022 session.

HB 1337, sponsored by Rep. Mia Gregerson (D-SeaTac), is a zombie returning from the 2011 session. This proposal represents a voluntary and incentive-based approach in which cities are encouraged to draw from a variety of policies to promote ADUs in exchange for access to financial incentives. Unfortunately, it appears that the sponsor may be considering amending this bill to lean towards a mandatory approach. Stay tuned for updates on this proposal.

HB 1660, sponsored by Rep. Sharon Shewmake (D-Bellingham), would remove the authority of cities to apply owner-occupancy requirements to either the initial home or the ADU, unless that unit will be used for a short-term rental.

HB 1711, from Rep. Gerry Pollet (D-Seattle), authorizes a variety of incentives for cities to promote ADUs. Specifically, the legislation would allow “cities and counties [to] adopt ordinances, development regulations, and other official controls which waive or defer fees, including impact fees; defer the payment of taxes; or waive specific regulations” if a binding commitment or covenant ensures that the ADU will not be regularly offered for short term rental. The city or county must also audit for compliance.

Please share any feedback you have on these proposals with Carl Schroeder and Shannon McClelland.

Dates to remember

HB 1337, HB 1660, and HB 1711 will all be heard in the House Local Government Committee on January 12 at 10 am.