Building codes and zoning ordinances imposed by municipalities and county can significantly influence development construction costs. The time and fees required for permitting and plan reviews may lead to increased financing costs, delayed construction starts, and unforeseen fees for permits and inspections. Regulatory predictability, consistency, and flexibility in oversight processes will contribute to private sector willingness to invest in affordable housing. All municipalities and county include goals to review and amend any development regulations that unnecessarily add to housing costs, development time, or otherwise constrain innovative housing solutions.
This project assessed city and county development ordinances related to housing, specifically those impacting density (multi-family dwellings), affordability, and zoning, including: zoning, permitting, use, ADUs, short-term rentals, developer incentives, development fees, and developer constraints. It will compare ordinances across jurisdictions (municipalities of Long Beach, Ilwaco, South Bend, and Raymond, plus Pacific County). In addition, it compared these statutes with progressive jurisdictions (relative to affordable/attainable housing).