Middle Housing Ordinance_Adopted by City Council June 24, 2025
Effective July 02, 2025
In response to House Bill 1110, cities like Edmonds are now required to allow middle housing—such as duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, cottage homes and courtyard apartments—in areas previously zoned only for single-family homes. This statewide legislation is part of a broader effort to increase housing supply, improve affordability, and offer more diverse housing options.
Over the past several months, City staff worked closely with the Planning Board and the community to draft code changes that not only meet the requirements of HB 1110 but also reflect community priorities. The Planning Board then made a formal recommendation to the City Council, which took a "minimum compliance" approach—making the required updates while preserving Edmonds’ existing height, setback, and lot coverage standards where possible.
The City Council adopted the Middle Housing Ordinance on June 24, 2025, with a few additional amendments. The new rules go into effect on July 2, 2025.
👉 View the adopted MIDDLE HOUSING ORDINANCE
What’s Changing?
Edmonds will no longer have a Single-Family Residential zone(RS).
These areas are now part of a new zoning category called Low-Density Residential (LDR). The LDR zone allows a variety of middle housing types—such as duplexes, triplexes, and cottage homes—alongside traditional single-family homes.
Property owners can still build or maintain a detached single-family home. This ordinance expands choices—it doesn’t take any away.
What is a Low Density Residential Zone?
To better reflect local conditions like lot size, location, and topography, the LDR zone includes three overlay districts:
- LDR-S: Low-Density Residential – Small Lot (Previously RS-6)
- LDR-M: Low-Density Residential – Medium Lot (Previously RS-8 and RS-10)
- LDR-L: Low-Density Residential – Large Lot (Previously RS-12)
Each overlay has its own set of development standards and more.
👉 Click here to view the Low-Density Residential Overlays Summary Table
👉 Click here to view the Unit density and Affordability criteria
👉 Click here to view the Site Development Standards
👉 Click here to view the Site Development Standards for Accessory Dwelling Units
Please contact the Planning Department for any questions regarding the changes, development possibilities.