Bellingham may extend its temporary housing rules; other cities renew theirs the same way

Bellingham's City Council holds 2 public hearings Nov. 2 on extending its temporary rules.

One set lets more small homes, like duplexes and townhouses, be built in mostly residential areas, except near Lake Whatcom. The other sets clear design standards so projects get a faster review.

State law lets a city put temporary zoning rules in place right away. A public hearing must follow, and each renewal past 6 months needs a new hearing.

If a city misses a state deadline, the state's model rules can apply instead, the Everett Herald reported.

• BellinghamHousing rules in effect since Dec. 23, 2025, set to end Dec. 4, 2026. The Nov. 2 proposal adds 6 months. Design rules end Dec. 23, 2026.
• MonroeNew 6-month rules for shelters and supportive housing took effect March 4, 2026, replacing its 2025 temporary rules.
• MarysvilleAdopted temporary rules for duplexes, triplexes and townhomes June 23, 2025, for up to 6 months, to meet the state deadline.
• Mercer IslandA draft would renew its temporary shelter rules for 6 months, with a hearing March 3, 2026. Permanent rules are expected by the end of 2027.

See the Nov. 2 hearings on Coming up: temporary housing rules and design rules.

Nov. 2 update: Bellingham's City Council voted 7-0 to extend its interim housing zoning rules for 6 more months.

The extension leaves out properties in the Lake Whatcom watershed.

The Council also voted 7-0 to extend its interim citywide design standards.

What's next: the City's summary does not give the new end dates.