WA HB1096

Cities must establish an administrative process allowing residential lots to be split into two lots, with approval based on clear and objective standards without public hearings or design review beyond administrative review

Only one new lot may be created per parent lot, both lots must meet minimum size requirements, and lots created through this process cannot be split again (recorded on the lot survey)

Applicants displacing renters must propose a displacement mitigation strategy; sewer and water availability certificates are required; access and utility rights must be granted before recording

Cities with comprehensive plan updates due in 2027 must adopt these requirements during that update; all other cities must implement within two years of the effective date (July 27, 2025)

Exemptions apply to unbuildable lots (critical areas, shorelines, etc.), areas designated as sole-source aquifers on Puget Sound islands, and lots large enough for other land division processes