Starting on July 23, 2023, SEPA review will no longer be required for most housing projects in Seattle, based on a recent state law change. This is applicable to various types of residential and mixed-use developments that would have previously undergone SEPA review.

The new SEPA exemption applies to in-process and new projects, and it will be in effect until September 30, 2025, coinciding with the Seattle Comprehensive Plan Update timeline. The Comprehensive Plan will provide new housing growth targets and updated SEPA thresholds.

The SEPA amendment is one solution to the need for affordable and accessible housing in the city, and it streamlines the permitting process, eliminates bureaucratic hurdles, and provides increased certainty to developers. For in-process projects, the City is requesting applicants submit a form to confirm they do not wish to proceed with SEPA review. For more information or assistance to opt out of SEPA review, please contact Holly Golden, Abigail DeWeese, or anyone on our Land Use team.

^{The information contained in this update is provided for informational purposes only. It should not be construed as business, legal, accounting, tax, financial, investment or other advice on any matter and should not be relied upon for such.}