Seattle’s booming economy and healthy real estate market drive an increasing need for housing. To help address that need, DPD administers building standards that protect neighborhood character while allowing new development. Creating incentives to build housing affordable to people of all incomes is of particular interest.

Seattle’s new downtown regulations for new development include incentives for both affordable housing and LEED silver construction.  DPD’s Green Building program provides support to residents remodeling their homes. The Alternative Housing Choices project developed legislation that allows homeowners, in some areas, to convert garages and outbuildings into small apartments.

That combination of new development and sustainable remodeling provides a healthy environment for creating additional units. From Downtown to Green Lake to South Park, the City is committed to providing housing for Seattle’s future.