LR1 Zoning in Seattle: Your Crash Course in Not-So-High-Density Housing
Living in the Emerald City? Thinking about buying a place or maybe becoming a tiny house tycoon (it is Seattle, after all)? Then you've probably stumbled upon the mysterious world of zoning codes. Don't worry, we've all been there. Zoning can be drier than a day-old Rainier Fog. But fear not, intrepid house hunter/tiny house mogul, for today we delve into the fascinating (or maybe not so fascinating) world of LR1 zoning in Seattle!
LR1: The Goldilocks Zone - Not Too Big, Not Too Small
Imagine a zone that's like the porridge for Goldilocks - juuuust right. Not too dense like those high-rise apartments that block your precious mountain views, and not too sparse like a single-family zone where your next-door neighbor is a squirrel (though, admittedly, squirrel neighbors can be pretty chill). That, my friends, is LR1 zoning. It allows for low-rise, multi-family housing, which basically means townhouses, cottages, and rowhouses. Think charming little streets lined with these quaint abodes, perfect for that friendly neighborhood vibe.
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| What is Lr1 Zoning In Seattle |
LR1 Lowdown: Need-to-Know Basics
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- Density: Think cozy, not crowded. LR1 allows for one unit per 2,200 square feet of lot area. So, it's not exactly a concrete jungle, but you won't be living in complete isolation either.
- Building Types: Townhouses, rowhouses, and cottages are your main options here. Think skip the high-rises, embrace the cozy vibes.
- Height Limits: 30 feet is the max, so no skyscrapers masquerading as townhouses here.
- Setbacks: These are the spaces between your house and the property line. LR1 has some specific requirements to ensure everyone gets a little breathing room (and some privacy from their squirrel neighbors).
Is LR1 Right for You? The Great Zoning Quiz
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- Do you dream of a high-rise view with a killer rooftop patio? Nope, then LR1 might not be your jam.
- Do you crave the peace and quiet of a single-family home with a sprawling yard? Maybe look elsewhere, friend.
- Do you enjoy the charm of townhouses or the friendly vibe of rowhouses? Ding ding ding! LR1 might be your perfect Goldilocks zone.
Bonus Round: Fun Facts About LR1 (Because Why Not?)
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- LR1 is often used as a transition zone between single-family neighborhoods and more dense areas. Think of it as the friendly middle ground.
- Seattle likes its green spaces! LR1 developments typically require a good portion of the lot to be dedicated to landscaping, so you can enjoy some greenery with your multi-family living.
How To LR1 Like a Pro: Your Quick Guide
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- Hit the books (or the internet): The Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections ([URLseattle city zoning department ON seattle.gov]) has all the official details on LR1 zoning
- Talk to a local realtor: They'll have the inside scoop on specific neighborhoods and what kind of development is allowed.
- Befriend a friendly planner: Okay, maybe not literally, but the Seattle Department of Neighborhoods (
https://www.seattle.gov/neighborhoods
So there you have it! Your crash course in LR1 zoning. Now you can go forth and conquer the Seattle housing market (or at least have a slightly less confused conversation about zoning with your realtor).
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