King County Council voted 6–3 on Wednesday to approve sweeping zoning reforms that will allow duplexes, triplexes, and accessory dwelling units in neighborhoods previously restricted to single-family homes. The measure, which supporters say is essential to addressing the region's housing affordability crisis, drew fierce opposition from homeowner groups who argued it will fundamentally alter the character of established neighborhoods.
The new rules apply to unincorporated King County and will take effect in July 2026. Under the changes, property owners in areas currently zoned for single-family residential use will be permitted to build up to three units on a standard lot without a conditional use permit. The legislation also reduces minimum parking requirements for new construction near transit corridors. "This is about giving families more options," said Councilmember Girmay Zahilay, who sponsored the measure. "The status quo is pricing working people out of the communities they grew up in."
Opponents packed the council chambers during Wednesday's hearing, with several residents of the Skyway and Maple Valley areas warning that increased density would strain already overburdened roads, schools, and utilities. "Nobody asked us if we wanted this," said Linda Carraway, a 30-year Skyway resident. The King County Housing Authority estimates the reform could generate up to 4,500 additional housing units over the next decade, though independent analysts suggest the actual number may be lower due to construction costs and market conditions. Several neighboring cities, including Bellevue and Kirkland, have enacted similar measures in recent years following state legislation encouraging urban density.