Turning a property into a duplex in Tacoma, Washington, follows strict rules. These rules are to match local zoning laws and building codes for homes. Homeowners and developers must know these regulations well. The City of Tacoma's Planning and Development Services outlines important zones, building standards, permits, and new laws for duplex conversions and Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).

Washington State's push for more housing is clear with House Bill 1110. This bill, passed with broad support, requires larger cities to welcome fourplexes. And cities with 25,000 to 75,000 people must allow duplexes in many areas¹. The Department of Commerce in the state predicts we'll need a million more homes in 20 years due to more people living here¹. These steps follow Oregon and California's lead in removing single-family only zoning¹.

If you're thinking about making a duplex, start with Tacoma's official rules. Also, check the past zoning and permit history of your property. Not following these conversion rules can lead to big fines and having to undo work on projects that don't follow the law.

This paper is to teach you, not to take the place of official city or state codes. Following all local, state, and federal rules for building duplexes and ADUs in Tacoma, WA, is up to you. For more details or if you need the info in a different format or accommodations, reach out to the City of Tacoma's Planning and Development Services.

Key Takeaways

• The City of Tacoma regulates duplex conversions and ADUs through specific zoning laws and residential construction codes.
• House Bill 1110 increases housing supply by allowing duplexes or fourplexes in most cities across Washington state¹.
• Washington needs an additional 1 million homes over the next two decades to keep up with population growth¹.
• Zoning and development standards vary depending on the city's population, impacting where duplexes and ADUs can be built².
• Seattle, following similar trends, has specific zoning requirements for duplexes built within the last 40 years³.
• It is essential to consult Tacoma’s Planning and Development Services for compliance and detailed regulations.
• This guide does not replace official legal codes but serves to inform prospective duplex developers of key considerations.

Introduction to Duplex Conversion in Tacoma, WA

The need for more housing options has made duplex conversions popular in cities like Tacoma, WA. Following duplex conversion guidelines and knowing about property development is key. This knowledge helps meet housing needs and improves the area's living standards.

Overview of Duplex Conversions

Turning a single-family home into a duplex offers more living choices. The Planning and Development Services department in the city guides this process. They ensure that the project fits the neighborhood's historical values.

There are new rules about duplex conversions. For example, historic buildings can't be turned into duplexes or triplexes according to the HMR-SRD zoning. Only buildings not considered historic can be converted⁴. Also, lots for small developments must be at least 4500 square feet big⁴. These rules help keep the city's charm.

Importance of Understanding Local Regulations

Knowing the local laws is important for successful duplex projects. This includes understanding how the Landmarks Preservation Commission works. It's also about knowing the rules for Detached Accessory Dwelling Units in historic areas⁴. Following these rules avoids legal issues.

There are new ADU guidelines to help with property development⁵. These rules suggest using prefabricated units for faster permits. They also offer benefits for building affordable ADUs⁵. These steps support urban growth and make housing more affordable.

Zoning Regulations for Duplex Conversions in Tacoma

Knowing the zoning rules is key for anyone wanting to change a single-family home into a duplex in Tacoma. Following Tacoma's zoning laws makes sure your project fits in with local standards. It also helps the city grow correctly.

Permitted Zoning Districts

Duplexes in Tacoma are mostly allowed in certain areas meant for more houses close together. These areas, like the R-2 and R-3 zones, are set up for mixed-use and lots of homes in one place. This plan helps fight the lack of homes by increasing duplexes⁶. Big cities like Tacoma must also follow state laws making room for duplexes almost everywhere. This promotes better land use and city growth¹.

Zoning Code Requirements

For duplex projects, respecting Tacoma's building rules is crucial. The city's code has clear rules about how big and how tall duplexes and ADUs can be⁷. Developers need to meet certain requirements, like how big the plot should be and providing enough parking⁷. Sometimes, you might also need to attend public hearings if your project is taller than allowed⁷.

Tacoma tries to make development easier by simplifying permits and lowering fees. This is part of their goal to make more homes available and affordable⁶. About 24% of places have made these processes easier or cheaper to help with building more⁶.

Understanding Tacoma's zoning rules, including which zones allow duplexes and building requirements, is critical. This knowledge helps developers move smoothly through legal steps towards creating more homes in the city.

Development Standards for Duplexes in Tacoma

Tacoma has rules for duplex development to keep a good balance. It aims to make more housing while keeping areas looking nice. The city's rules focus on lot size, height, and how much open space there should be. This helps create better living spaces for people.

As the need for housing grows, these standards are key. They ensure duplexes fit well in their communities. This is important for making sure everyone has a good place to live.

Lot Size and Width

In Tacoma, duplex lots must follow certain size rules. They should be big enough for two homes. This is based on the area's zoning rules.

Even though some places might have different rules, the main goal is fairness. By doing this, the city helps make sure new homes are good for everyone.

Height and Setback Requirements

Rules about how tall and far from the edge duplexes can be are important. They help keep the neighborhood looking nice and private for everyone. Tacoma says duplexes can't be taller than 24 feet in certain areas⁵.

Setback rules make sure buildings aren't too close to the property line. This prevents cramped spaces. It also means more light and air around, making for a healthier place to live.

Open Space and Yard Requirements

Having open spaces is a big part of making duplexes. Tacoma wants lots of the area to be open. This gives people places to relax and play outside.

These green spots are key for a good life. They also help the neighborhood look better. This supports the environment and helps everyone feel better at home.

Permit Requirements for Duplex Conversions in Tacoma

In Tacoma, understanding the duplex conversion permit process is key. It helps make sure your project runs smoothly. This means knowing about the Tacoma ADU permit steps and the needed documents for a duplex change.

Types of Permits Needed

To convert to a duplex, you'll need different permits. This depends on your project's details. Generally, you must have:

• Building Permit
• Plumbing Permit
• Mechanical Permit
• Site Development Permit

These permits are crucial for meeting Tacoma's safety and structure rules. You need various permits for construction work, like building changes and plumbing work.

Submittal and Review Process

The permit application process in Tacoma has several steps. All plans must be sent in electronically. This makes things easier for everyone. You'll need several key documents for a duplex conversion:

1. Completed ADU submittal checklist
2. Written scope of work specifying proposed work areas
3. Site plan with current and planned buildings
4. Floor plans for existing and planned living spaces
5. Completed Building Permit application

Make sure all documents are detailed to prevent any hold-ups. On March 18, 2019, Tacoma changed its ADU standards. This change affects how permits are reviewed in the Tacoma ADU permit process, offering a more straightforward approach⁸. Tacoma now encourages making unpermitted ADUs legal. They allow flexibility for these owners to apply for permits until December 31, 2020⁸.

Understanding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in Tacoma

Accessory dwelling units, or ADUs, are key in Tacoma's housing strategy. They offer an affordable option for those needing small living areas. Plus, they follow local rules.

What is an ADU?

ADUs are extra living spaces on the same property as a main house. They can be attached (AADUs) or separate (DADUs). These units allow for more housing choices without big new buildings. In Tacoma, you can have up to two ADUs in certain zones⁹.

ADU Development Standards

The rules for ADUs in Tacoma include following green building guidelines or being affordable housing⁹. Only one ADU is allowed per home in specific zones⁹.

There are size limits for these units. An AADU can be up to 1,000 square feet. A DADU also has a 1,000-square-foot limit, but only 650 square feet in lower density zones⁹. Parking for ADUs is flexible. If there's off-street parking, it must stay unless moved elsewhere on the lot⁹.

Permit Requirements for ADUs

Getting permits for ADUs in Tacoma means following many rules. The city helps by offering pre-approved designs. This makes getting permits quicker, taking about 2-6 weeks⁹. Homeowners don't have to live on the property. Tiny houses on foundations count as DADUs, but wheeled ones are limited⁹.

Tacoma promotes ADUs to make more affordable housing. A new plan from 2023 aims to make permits easier and support housing projects¹⁰. This includes fixing up affordable homes, guarding tenants, and creating housing for different income levels¹⁰. Making permits simpler and boosting ADUs helps Tacoma offer varied housing options.

For detailed information on ADUs, permits, and design rules, someone can check the City of Tacoma's Planning and Development⁹.

Recent Legislative Changes Impacting Duplex Conversions in Tacoma

In Washington State, new laws have changed how duplex conversions work, due to House Bill 1110. This bill lets duplexes and fourplexes be built in urban spots, no matter what local zoning laws say. It aims to make more homes available by upping the housing density.

Summary of House Bill 1110

House Bill 1110 tackles the issue of housing affordability and availability. It requires cities with 25,000 to 75,000 people to allow duplexes. This move is key in Washington State's efforts to ease the housing crisis by allowing more types of homes in urban areas. Smaller places get more leeway, but this rule is for the big cities.

Impact on Local Zoning

The effects of House Bill 1110 are clear in Tacoma's zoning changes. Initially, the Home in Tacoma plan had 40% of residential land for Mid-Scale homes. By the end, only 17.5% was marked for such development¹¹. Mid-Scale zoning covers buildings from duplexes to small apartments, with a three-story limit for apartments¹¹. This plan aims to grow Tacoma's housing stock and tackle climbing house prices and rents¹¹. The bill protects areas critical to the environment from being developed.

In Tacoma, Mid-Scale housing's availability differs by district. District 3, for example, has lots reserved for Mid-Scale housing changes¹¹. These efforts don't just make housing more accessible. They also strive to fix issues of spatial equity as shown by Tacoma's Equity/Opportunity Index¹¹. This index shows how access to opportunities isn't the same everywhere, shaping these zoning reforms.

The new laws and zoning changes aim to create more inclusive and diverse housing options. This marks a significant move in Washington State's battle against the urban housing shortage.

Common Challenges and Considerations in Tacoma

In Tacoma, WA, duplex conversion and real estate development have their obstacles. Understanding and tackling these challenges is key for developers and homeowners alike.

Common Legal Challenges

Keeping up with updated regulations and codes is a big challenge. For example, when converting to a condominium, Washington state requires steps like issuing a Notice of Condominium Conversion. Owners must also figure out who gets relocation help¹². Not following these steps can lead to big fines for breaking the rules¹².

Legal issues can also cause long delays. In Seattle, a delay of almost three years in ADU reform likely stopped over 700 ADUs from being built¹³. These delays can mess up housing development plans, which is frustrating for developers and homebuyers.

Tips for Compliance and Planning

To follow the rules and plan well in real estate development, knowing the latest Tacoma city laws is crucial. Getting help from skilled real estate lawyers can make understanding the legal details easier, leading to a smoother process¹². Also, getting advice from planning services can make the conversion process easier and avoid problems.

Think about how state laws affect local zoning. For instance, Seattle's Mandatory Housing Affordability (MHA) law shows that even small zoning changes can boost affordable housing¹³. To tackle ADU legal challenges in Tacoma, make sure to follow and document all required steps correctly.

Case Studies of Duplex Conversions in Tacoma

The power of Tacoma duplex projects is clear in many city areas. One project showed median rent up 21% from 2016 to 2019, while renter income only grew 12%¹⁴. These conversion stories share how they help offer affordable homes in places many want to live. For example, making duplexes from single homes has helped meet the need caused by a 44% rise in home value, especially when income only grew 22%¹⁴.

The Home in Tacoma plan lets builders look at ADU development examples. This change in zoning rules has allowed more homes to be built, from duplexes to small four-story apartments¹¹. The goal is to add more homes across neighborhoods¹¹.

The cost of setting up services like power ($10.50) and water ($6.10) affects Tacoma duplex projects budgets¹⁵. Knowing these costs helps developers plan better. Plus, reconnecting fees from $12 to $75 add to budget considerations¹⁵.

Studying the effects on people reveals a lot. For instance, 26.3% of Pierce County's homeless are Black/African-American, which is high compared to their 6.6% population share¹⁴. This highlights the need for fair housing, and conversion projects aim to fix these issues.

In short, these successful conversion stories teach important lessons for future developers. They show the advantages and obstacles of starting duplex projects and ADU development in Tacoma. The insights given help in understanding zoning laws, financing utility fees, and tackling social and economic issues effectively.

Conclusion

In Tacoma, WA, knowing the rules for turning buildings into duplexes is key. This knowledge helps city planners and developers work with zoning and permits smoothly. By doing this, they can make sure the city grows in a way that's good for everyone¹⁶.

House Bill 1110 shows how important it is to follow local building rules. These new housing policies help keep a balance. They make sure that when buildings are turned into duplexes, it's fair for everyone¹⁷.

As Tacoma changes, it's important for everyone to work together on housing issues. Knowing the rules for secondary housing units is a big step. This teamwork makes Tacoma a place where everyone can find a good place to live¹⁸. By working together, we make sure Tacoma's growth is fair and includes everyone¹⁸.

FAQ

What are the key regulations for duplex conversions in Tacoma, WA?

To convert a house into a duplex in Tacoma, you must follow the rules. This includes meeting the Tacoma Municipal Code, following height and distance rules, having a big enough lot, and keeping some open space.

What is an ADU in Tacoma?

In Tacoma, an ADU, or Accessory Dwelling Unit, is a small house on the same lot as a bigger one. It can be inside, attached, or separate from the main house. ADUs help with affordable housing and offer more living options.

What permits are required for duplex conversions in Tacoma?

To convert a house into a duplex in Tacoma, you might need several permits. These can include ones for building, plumbing, and the site's layout. What you need depends on your project, and you must apply online.

What are the recent legislative changes affecting duplex conversions in Tacoma?

Washington State's House Bill 1110 now allows building duplexes and fourplexes in cities, no matter the local zoning laws. This change is to make more homes available and tackle housing costs. It specifically requires cities of certain sizes to allow duplexes.

Where are duplexes permitted under Tacoma's zoning regulations?

In Tacoma, you can build a duplex where single-family homes are allowed. There's no rule on lot size or shape. But, the duplex must meet the Tacoma Municipal Code for being on the same lot as the main house and follow ADU and building standards.

What development standards apply to duplexes in Tacoma?

Tacoma has rules on how big an ADU can be compared to the lot and main house, how tall it can be, how far it must be from the property lines, and parking. There are also design rules to make sure the ADU and main house look good together.

What are the common challenges in developing ADUs in Tacoma?

When making an ADU in Tacoma, challenges include understanding the laws, getting permits, and meeting design rules. It's very important to follow the Tacoma Municipal Code.

How can property owners ensure compliance with Tacoma's ADU regulations?

Owners should keep up with laws, get advice from Tacoma Planning and Development Services, and know the permit and zoning rules well. Using the ADU Design Guide is also helpful.

Can existing unpermitted ADUs be legalized in Tacoma?

Now, Tacoma allows owners of ADUs without permits to make them legal. They must go through the permit process, provide the needed documents, and have inspections to meet current standards.

What is required in the submittal process for duplex conversion permits?

For a duplex permit in Tacoma, you need to submit site plans, building designs, and other documents. These are checked by the planning department to make sure they follow the development standards.

Source Links

1. WA Senate passes bill allowing duplexes, fourplexes in single-family zones - https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/politics/wa-senate-passes-bill-allowing-duplexes-fourplexes-in-single-family-zones/
2. Major Changes to Washington's Housing Laws - https://mrsc.org/stay-informed/mrsc-insight/july-2023/major-changes-to-washington-housing-laws
3. SoundMultiFamily.com | Difference between a Seattle duplex and Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU), Duplexes for sale in Seattle - https://www.soundmultifamily.com/resources/seattle-legal-duplex-adu-what-is-the-difference/
4. PDF - http://tacomanorthslope.org/trolley/archives/2015-11 November.pdf
5. Full Cover Photo Report v3.4.1 - https://www.ezview.wa.gov/Portals/_1976/Documents/adu-examples/Commerce Final ADU Guidance 2023.pdf
6. How Washington’s local governments have moved to allow for denser housing • Washington State Standard - https://washingtonstatestandard.com/2024/04/09/how-washingtons-local-governments-have-moved-to-allow-for-denser-housing/
7. Guest Column: How zoning could limit our Incredible Expanding and Shrinking House - Gig Harbor Now - https://www.gigharbornow.org/opinion/editorials/community-editorials/guest-column-how-zoning-could-limit-our-incredible-expanding-and-shrinking-house/
8. PDF - https://cms.cityoftacoma.org/planning/DADU/2019_ADU Ilustrated design booklet.pdf
9. Accessory Dwelling Unit - SDCI - https://www.seattle.gov/sdci/permits/common-projects/accessory-dwelling-units
10. Tacoma approaches affordable housing from a new angle: anti-displacement - https://www.kuow.org/stories/tacoma-approaches-affordable-housing-from-a-new-angle-anti-displacement
11. Equity Analysis Favors Broader Home in Tacoma Rezone - The Urbanist - https://www.theurbanist.org/2022/01/03/spatial-equity-analysis-home-in-tacoma/
12. Condo Conversions - https://www.dicksonlegal.com/condo-conversions/
13. Tearing Down McMansion-Sized Housing Myths - https://www.sightline.org/2019/03/25/mcmansion-sized-housing-myths/
14. PDF - https://www.cityoftacoma.org/UserFiles/Servers/Server_6/File/cms/Planning/Affordable Housing/AHAS Planning Actions/Housing Equity Taskforce/HET Packet 05-12-22.pdf
15. Title 12-Utilities - https://www.mytpu.org/wp-content/uploads/Tacoma-Water-Regulations-Rates.pdf
16. PDF - https://cityoftacoma.org/UserFiles/Servers/Server_6/File/cms/CMO/TMC1.95-RentalHousingCode-v20211001.pdf
17. Chapter 59.18 RCW: RESIDENTIAL LANDLORD-TENANT ACT - https://apps.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=59.18&full=true
18. Rental 100 Qs - part 1.pdf - https://www.seattle.gov/documents/Departments/CivilRights/FH-FAQ-Property_Owners_Managers.pdf