As HB 1576 worked its way through both chambers, it picked up amendments that provide protections for preserving historic landmarks under certain circumstances.

Here are the changes reflected in the version that passed the Senate:

• In addition to properties within a historic district established through a local preservation ordinance, properties that are more than 125 years old are also exempt from requirements in the bill.
• Properties may be nominated as a historic landmark without the property owner’s consent; but, unless exempted above, must obtain consent before designation.

Because the Senate passed a different version than the House, the bill has not officially passed the Legislature until agreement is reached on the final version.

Are historic landmarks a thing of the past?

February 14, 2025

A House bill takes aim at the development restrictions placed on historic landmarks.

Sponsored by Rep. Amy Walen (D–Kirkland), HB 1576 would do the following:

• Beginning July 26, 2026, outside of areas that have been designated as historic districts, no city may designate a property as a historic landmark if the property is less than 40 years old, or
• If the designation would restrict the use of the property, if the property owner has not given written consent to the designation. Such a designation made without the property owner's consent is void unless and until consent is given.

The bill also provides a SEPA appeal exemption for adoption of ordinances, development regulations and amendments to such regulations, and other nonproject actions taken by a city or consistent with the requirements.

Date to remember

HB 1576 is scheduled for a committee vote on three different days in the House Local Government Committee:

• Tuesday, February 18 at 10:30 am
• Wednesday, February 19 at 8 am
• Friday, February 21 at 10:30 am