Legislation

In 2024, the Washington State Legislature passed and the governor enacted legislation that changes how co-living housing, or congregate residence, is regulated. "Co-living housing" means a residential development with sleeping units that are independently rented and lockable and provide living and sleeping space, and residents share kitchen facilities with other sleeping units in the building (Revised Code of Washington 36.70A.535).

House Bill 1998 requires that King County allow co-living housing (called a "congregate residence" in the King County Code) in areas that allow multifamily housing with six or more units per lot on land inside urban growth areas. Also, the county…

• Cannot require room dimension standards larger than what is required by the State Building Code
• May not treat a sleeping unit as more than 0.25 of a dwelling unit for density purposes
• Cannot require parking within 0.5 mile of a major transit stop or provide more than 0.25 spaces per sleeping unit, with exceptions
• Must reduce sewer connection fees per sleeping unit to half of what is charged for a standard dwelling unit
• Cannot require standards more restrictive than those required for other multi-family buildings in the same zone

These provisions go into effect January 1, 2026.

Resource materials

• Co-Living Guidance from the Washington State Department of Commerce
• Bill report
• Full bill language

lf you are considering submitting an application, please send email to PermitQuestions@kingcounty.gov or call 206-296-6600.