Burien City Council passes interim zoning ordinance for religious groups to set up homeless encampments

The Burien City Council has passed an interim zoning ordinance that establishes specific guidelines for religious groups hosting homeless encampments on their properties. The ordinance requires these organizations to secure temporary use permits, with the potential for fee waivers aimed at facilitating assistance to the unhoused. Moreover, it restricts the establishment of encampments to one per every 1,000-foot radius and mandates safety inspections related to size and electrical heating. Councilmember Hugo Garcia was the sole abstaining vote, voicing his concern that such regulations could hinder the efforts of religious organizations in providing timely aid. He highlighted the potential difficulties that churches might face in responding to urgent needs, especially during the holiday season.

The ordinance is part of a broader effort to align local regulations with federal and state laws concerning the rights of religious organizations. Notably, this legislation comes amid a lawsuit filed by Oasis Home Church against the city, asserting that local ordinances infringe on their constitutional rights. A public hearing to discuss this interim zoning ordinance is set for January 13, 2025.