DPD has monitored micro dwelling units in Seattle for about two years. We are now evaluating our rules to make sure we have clear and consistent regulations. Our evaluation is based on our research and on concerns raised by the public and elected officials.
We have seen an increasing demand for, and construction of, micro dwelling units since about 2010. This emerging form of housing is typically:
- Small sleeping rooms (usually 100 – 285 square feet) with private bathrooms
- Grouped together in arrangements of up to 8, with a shared kitchen or common area
- Located in urban center and urban village neighborhoods, particularly in Capitol Hill and University District
- Available at lower monthly rents than standard studio or one bedroom apartments
We delivered preliminary recommendations to the City Council’s PLUS Committee on June 28. The permitting and design of micro dwelling units to City Council. We’re using the following guiding principles to shape our recommendations:
- Preserve affordability — continue to support micro dwelling units as a housing option in Seattle
- Ensure basic health and safety of all housing
- Provide consistent treatment and classification of micro dwelling units across all City departments and programs
- Improve tracking and awareness of micro dwelling unit development
- Regulate micro dwelling units in a way that correlates to that of other types of new development
We are evaluating feedback from the City Council and others. Draft recommendations are anticipated later this summer. For more information, please see our Micro Dwelling Units website.