City of Tacoma Invites Community Input on Proposals to Modernize Housing, Zoning, and Land Use Codes for 2026
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~ Tacoma Invites Community Input for 2026 Comprehensive Plan and Land Use Code Amendments

The City of Tacoma is seeking community involvement in shaping the future of local land use through the review process for the 2026 amendments to the Comprehensive Plan and Land Use Regulatory Code. As part of this effort, a public hearing will be held by the Planning Commission on March 4 at 6 p.m. at the Tacoma Municipal Building, as well as virtually on Zoom. Written comments can also be submitted until March 6 at 5 p.m. via email or mail.

The proposed updates aim to expand housing inclusivity, streamline development processes, and align local codes with recent state legislation. To help community members navigate these proposals and provide effective feedback, the Planning and Development Services Department will host a virtual Community Informational Meeting on February 26 at 6 p.m.

According to city officials, these amendments represent a proactive effort to update Tacoma's regulatory framework in response to the community's evolving needs. One key proposal is the expansion of "Special Needs Housing" zoning standards to include emergency shelters and Enhanced Service Facilities for compliance with state requirements. This will also make critical housing resources more accessible throughout the city.

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In addition, changes are being proposed to support families and development in Tacoma. This includes removing conditional use permit requirements and enrollment caps for day care facilities in Urban Residential zones (UR-1, UR-2, and UR-3) to increase access to childcare. The use of binding site plans for multi-dwelling residential subdivisions is also being considered to provide more flexibility in development, with permit expiration extended from five to ten years.

The Planning Commission is also looking into designations for four parcels along McKinley Avenue East as part of pre-annexation planning efforts. This includes "Low-Scale Residential" designations and "Urban Residential-1" (UR-1) zoning to provide clear guidance for compatible use and development if these properties are annexed into Tacoma.

In addition, minor plan and code amendments are being proposed to correct inconsistencies and clarify language within the Tacoma Municipal Code for easier understanding and administration.

Draft documents, maps, and detailed FAQs are available for review on the city's website. Community members who require information in alternate formats can email the Planning and Development Services Department.

The City of Tacoma is encouraging all community members to participate in this important process to shape the future of local land use. By providing feedback and input, residents can help create a more inclusive, streamlined, and aligned regulatory framework that meets the needs of the growing community.

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