The beginning of the end for megahomes in Seattle?

Looks like Councilmember Conlin has been getting busy with some proposed changes to Seattle’s Single Family Zoning Code. (Thanks to Renee for the heads up on this one!)

• Delete a provision accommodating taller structures as a product of averaging the height of adjacent existing single-family structures.
• Reduce maximum lot coverage on lots less than 5,000 sq. ft. from 1,750 sq. ft. as is allowed currently to 1,000 sq. ft. plus 15% of lot area.
• Limit hardscape surface to 65% of lot area.
• Allow dormers constructed above the maximum permitted height, but below the peak of a pitched roof.
• Limit the additional height permitted for sloped lots to a maximum of five feet.
• Remove corner lot coverage allowance and reduce alley lot coverage allowance to 10%
• Waive parking requirements for single-family residential uses on parcels less than 3,000 square feet in size or 30 feet in width where access to parking is permitted through a required yard abutting a street
• Prevent garage walls from being any closer to the street lot line than 80% of the streetlevel façade that is not a garage.
• Limit the width of garage doors on a street-facing façade to 50% of the structure width or 10 feet, whichever is greater.
• Specify that minor additions such as eaves and unenclosed decks shall not prevent development of adjacent historic lots.
• Create a new lot coverage allowance for rear garages on lots with parking access through the front yard.

Grab a copy of the proposed single family updates here, amendments checklist, and the SEPA checklist.

(Will megahomes finally be able to drag their sorry butts back to the exurbs?)