City of Burien releases EIS document, setting stage for June 16 council vote on zoning overhaul

The City of Burien completed its environmental review process for proposed housing code and zoning map amendments, which will be voted on by the City Council on June 16, 2025. Residents from areas like Seahurst and Three Tree Point have raised concerns that the proposed changes may alter their neighborhoods' character by allowing high-density developments. The amendments would introduce more housing types, including duplexes and triplexes, into traditionally single-family zones, as well as small-scale commercial uses to foster walkability. According to the city's Housing Code and Zoning Map Amendments Fact Sheet, these changes are designed to comply with new state laws and address local issues of displacement and affordability. Liz Stead, Community Development Director, stated that the amendments reflect a vision for a more inclusive and connected Burien.

The city aims to finalize the zoning code changes after a seven-day waiting period following the adoption notice. The proposed changes follow the adoption of an environmental impact addendum to the 2024 Final Environmental Impact Statement related to the Burien 2044 Comprehensive Plan. The city determined that the proposal is likely to have significant adverse environmental impacts, but it will not prepare a new environmental impact statement.