The city of Airway Heights is updating its municipal code to comply with Washington state laws concerning options to relieve housing shortages.

The Washington state Legislature passed two separate bills in 2023 addressing missing-middle housing and accessory dwelling units under HB 1110 and HB 1337, respectively, explains Zachary Becker, associate planner for the city of Airway Heights.

HB 1110 requires cities to expand housing options by allowing a minimum of two residential units such as duplexes, triplexes, and townhomes in addition to the main residential unit on lots dedicated to single-family detached housing. 

HB 1337 calls for the allowance of two ADUs aside from the principal unit per residential lot.

Airway Heights is classified as a Tier 3 city with a population under 25,000. Consequently, it isn't subject to the same housing requirements as larger Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities that call for the allowance of between four and six more units for residential properties located near major transit stops or on lots that offer affordable housing, according to Tacoma-based Municipal Research and Services Center, a nonprofit serving municipalities in Washington state. 

The proposed code changes are designed to meet state standards by allowing a total of three units on all residential-zoned lots within the city, Becker says, adding that residential properties will be able to have any configuration of middle housing options and ADUs.

Both bills are being addressed through a program dubbed the Airway Heights Missing Middle Housing Project, he says.

The project calls for the amendment of 21 chapters of the municipal code that will impact zoning, development standards, transportation, utilities, and other areas.

In addition to meeting state standards and broadening housing options, the project aims to promote compact, walkable urban development and higher density while minimizing negative environmental impacts through the efficient use of resources.

Proposed amendments to the Airway Heights Municipal Code started in March and are making their way through the Planning Commission, he says. 

The project is inching closer to meeting state requirements with adoption by City Council expected in February, says Becker.

Moving forward, the city will establish housing growth targets and other goals and policies to help achieve those housing targets through its 2026 Comprehensive Plan, Becker says.