Redmond's New Zoning Laws: Shaping Our City's Future
Starting January 1, 2025, Redmond's residential zoning laws are changing to create more diverse, inclusive, and sustainable neighborhoods. Learn how these changes will affect your property and our community.
Redmond's New Zoning Timeline
1
2023
Washington State passed House Bill 1110 (HB 1110), requiring cities to allow diverse housing types like duplexes, triplexes, and townhouses in traditionally single-family neighborhoods to address the critical housing shortage.
2
2024
Redmond aligned its zoning code with HB 1110 and the Redmond 2050 Comprehensive Plan, our community's long-term vision for sustainable growth, housing affordability, and vibrant neighborhoods.
3
2025
New zoning rules take effect 1/1/2025, enabling more housing choices for different income levels, promoting walkable neighborhoods, and supporting local businesses while preserving Redmond's unique character.
Key Changes
Simplified Zoning Code
All R-1 through R-8 zones will be combined into a single Neighborhood Residential zone to make understanding and implementation easier.
More Housing Options
All residential areas will now allow "missing middle" housing types, including duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes and even sixplexes.
Expanded ADU Opportunities
Property owners can now build up to two Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) per lot, helping increase housing density and affordability.
Flexible Neighborhood Uses
Non-residential uses like home-based businesses and daycares will be permitted to support complete neighborhoods.
The Big Change: R Gone, Welcome NR Zone!
1
Before 2025
Redmond had multiple residential single zones: R-1, R-3, R-4, R-5, R-6, and R-8, each with specific regulations, but all allow only one house and one ADU per parcel.
2
January 1, 2025
All residential zones consolidated into a single new zone: Neighborhood Residential (NR).
3
After 2025
The NR zone allows for a variety of housing types and some non-residential uses to create more diverse and complete neighborhoods, with up to 8 units per parcel.
Purpose of the New Neighborhood Residential Zone
Diverse Housing Options
Provide a variety of housing types to serve households at different income levels, from single-family homes to sixplexes.
Complete Neighborhoods
Allow some non-residential uses to provide amenities and support vibrant, walkable communities.
Simplified Regulations
Streamline the zoning code by combining multiple residential zones into one, making it easier to understand and implement.
Affordable Housing
Increase housing options by accommodating "missing middle" housing types and Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).
Allowed Buildings in the NR Zone
Single-Family Homes
Traditional detached houses for individual families.
Duplexes to Sixplexes
Buildings with two to six separate living units.
Townhouses
Row of attached houses sharing side walls.
Apartments
Multi-unit buildings including stacked flats and courtyard apartments.
NR Zone Building Specifications
Special Considerations in the NR Zone
Lake Sammamish Setback
Properties bordering Lake Sammamish must maintain a 35 ft setback from the shoreline. This helps protect the lake's ecosystem and maintains scenic views for all residents.
Building Separation
A minimum of 5 ft separation is required between buildings on the same lot. This ensures adequate light, air, and privacy for all units, while also meeting fire safety regulations.
Variable Building Size
The maximum building size varies based on the number of units. This flexible approach allows for diverse housing types while maintaining neighborhood character and scale.
How to Find Your New Zoning
1
Visit the Redmond Zoning Map
Go to the official Redmond zoning map website.
2
Enter Your Address
Type in your property address in the search bar.
3
View Your Zoning
The map will display your new NR zoning designation.
4
Check Specific Rules
Click for detailed information about your property's zoning regulations.
Stay Informed and Get Involved
1
Attend Community Meetings
Participate in Redmond City Council meetings and public forums to stay updated on zoning discussions and decisions.
2
Subscribe to Updates
Sign up for the city's newsletter to receive regular updates on zoning changes and their implementation.
3
Contact City Planners
Reach out to Redmond's Planning Department with specific questions about how the new zoning laws affect your property.
4
Review the Comprehensive Plan
Familiarize yourself with the Redmond 2050 Comprehensive Plan to understand the long-term vision for our city.
Stay in touch - Subscribe for Redmond Zoning Updates!
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