Objective Design Standards Background

House Bill 1293 and RCW 36.70A.630

In 2023, the WA Legislature enacted House Bill (HB) 1293. This bill added a new section to the Growth Management Act (GMA) that establishes new requirements and restrictions governing how cities and counties planning under the GMA can regulate building design. The new GMA section was codified as RCW 36.70A.630 – Local Design Review – Requirements and Restrictions. The Mercer Island City Code (MICC) must be consistent with RCW 36.70A.630 by June 30, 2025 (RCW 36.70A.630(5)).

Mercer Island Design Standards

In 1972, the City of Mercer Island adopted its first design standards, established a process for design review, and created the Design Commission (DC) to conduct some of the design review. That system of design standards and design review has been amended several times in the years since it was adopted but remains in effect. Much of the new development that occurs throughout the City, in both Town Center and other zones, is subject to some level of design review, excluding single-family dwellings and their accessory buildings, property owned by the City, and wireless communication facilities. The DC conducts design review for more complex proposals, including new buildings, additions, or exterior alterations to a building or site beyond a certain threshold. All other proposals are subject to administrative design review conducted by the code official or designee. The City’s design standards and review procedures are codified in Chapters 19.11, 19.12, and 19.15 MICC.

Two Phased Approach

The City will comply with RCW 36.70A.630 in two phases. Phase one is the adoption of interim regulations to make temporary amendments to comply with the bill in advance of the June 30, 2025 deadline. Staff is in the process of preparing this interim ordinance and will incorporate the Council’s feedback. Phase two will be the adoption of permanent code amendments to comply with the requirements. Phase two is expected to begin in early 2026 and include public outreach in the scope of work to gather input on the proposed amendments.