Table of Contents

Affordable Housing Programs

The city’s codified ordinances describe affordable housing incentives in Chapter 17.140. Specific incentives are listed for housing projects, mixed-use projects, and condominium conversion projects. It also establishes a process for developers to request alternative incentives.

Short-Term Residential Rentals

The city’s zoning code addresses short-term residential rentals. The code defines “homestay rentals” (§17.156.018) as distinct from “vacation rentals,” which are prohibited in all zones (§17.156.044; §17.10.020.F).

The code provides specific regulations for homestay rentals (§17.86.160). A homestay permit is required; the code lists application requirements and performance standards. Performance standards address safety codes, maximum occupancy, owner availability/contact information, and advertising. Permit revocation is addressed. If the property is sold, a new permit must be obtained within 60 days.

Solar Energy

The city's subdivision ordinance addresses solar in its energy conservation standards, which require building placement and lot orientation that maximizes solar exposure (Sec. 16.18.160). The city also may require the placement of solar access easements for some or all lots within a subdivision to protect access to sunlight (Sec. 16.18.170).

The zoning code includes regulations on minimum yard size to protect the solar access on and between buildings, and allows solar collectors to extend partially into measured yard space (Sec. 17-16-020).

Height restrictions for solar installations are extended up to ten feet above the given building height (Sec. 17.16.040).

Lastly, applications for buildings above 50 feet tall must include a Solar Shading Analysis for surrounding buildings (Sec. 17-42-020.3.a).

Tiny Houses and Micro-Apartments

The city's municipal code defines movable tiny houses as an additional type of accessory dwelling unit to single-unit residences and sets specific development standards (§17.86.210(E)). Movable tiny home residents must complete an application and receive approval from the director of the community development department to ensure compliance with siting, energy efficiency, and utility requirements, among other standards.