Building Opportunity for Housing

Following on the heels of the successful Building Opportunity and Choices for All interim ordinance, the Building Opportunity for Housing project developed lasting Comprehensive Plan and Municipal Code amendments that increased housing choice and diversity in the city by supporting middle housing development.

Phase 1 - Comprehensive Plan Amendments

The first phase of the Building Opportunity for Housing project amended the Vision for housing in Spokane through the Comprehensive Plan. After a round of robust public engagement, the proposed language amendments were unanimously passed by City Council on July 31, 2023. For more information on the adopted Comprehensive Plan Amendment, the public is encouraged to visit the project page for Building Opportunity for Housing Phase 1.

Phase 2 - Municipal Code Amendments

On November 20, 2023, City Council approved the proposed Building Opportunity for Housing text amendments. Thanks to the attention and dedication of residents and community stakeholders, the new housing regulations will make Middle Housing more feasible throughout Spokane, providing for greater housing diversity and increasing opportunities for homeownership. You can watch a recording of the City Council hearing.

Key changes include:

• Design standards for single-unit detached homes and Middle Housing developments.
• No parking required for residential uses within ½ mile of a transit stop.
• No lot density maximums for lots less than 2 acres in size.
• Reduced lot size minimums.
• Expanded Unit Lot Subdivision process to allow for greater site flexibility.
• Implementation of footprint and impervious surface maximums.
• Increased building height and reduced front and rear setbacks for some zones.

The code changes went into effect January 1, 2024.