We are proposing a new Director’s Rule regarding height exceptions for floating homes regulated under the Shoreline Master Program. The purpose of this rule is to clarify that a height exception for floating homes that are greater than 18-ft in height also applies for floating homes with a height of 18-ft and less.
Shoreline Master Program Update
City Council will vote on Seattle’s Shoreline Master Program update in April. The program protects water-dependent activities and shoreline habitat, and provides for public access. The last comprehensive update of the Shoreline Master Program was in 1987. The anticipated effective date of the new regulations will be in May 2015. One of the changes to the Shoreline Master Program requires owners of floating residences to record their residence with the City.
Comment Letters for Floating Residences
Thank you to all of those who took the time to comment on draft of the proposed Director’s Rule on floating residences. DPD received in excess of 65 comments, all of which are posted here.
Public Meeting Notes on Director’s Rule for Vessels 10/1/13
The Department of Planning and Development hosted a public meeting on October 1, 2013 to take public input on a preliminary draft of a Director’s Rule.
Floating Residences Open House Oct. 1
When does the Seattle Shoreline Master Program (SSMP) allow floating residences? DPD has been asked to provide a Director’s Rule to assist owners of vessels and other floating properties currently moored in Seattle waters who seek to use those properties as residences. The rule will provide criteria for determining whether a floating residence meets SSMP requirements. The rule will not apply to floating homes or house barges.
Preliminary Director’s Rule Relating to Floating Residences
When does the Seattle Shoreline Master Program (SSMP) allow floating residences? DPD has been asked to provide a Director’s Rule to assist owners of vessels and other floating properties currently moored in Seattle waters who seek to use those properties as residences. The rule will provide criteria for determining whether a floating residence meets SSMP requirements. The rule will not apply to floating homes or house barges.
