BELLINGHAM, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Bellingham’s city council will hear from the public on whether to expand areas that middle housing can be built.

Middle housing is a term to describe housing for middle-income residents that include cottages, ADUs, duplexes, triplexes and townhomes.

A public hearing is scheduled for Monday, March 24 where residents can voice their opinions on changing the city’s zoning laws.

The city says that Bellingham’s rules around middle housing are outdated, as the type of housing is only allowed in a few residential areas.

The new ordinance would bring the city in line with Washington state regulations passed in 2023 by allowing middle housing in nearly all areas of Bellingham. If approved, the new zoning code would allow for up to four units to be built per lot, or up to six units if the two additional units are dedicated to affordable housing.

This hearing comes after Mayor Kim Lund signed an executive order last November that pushed for an increase in housing in Bellingham. The city would accomplish this through the development of middle housing and infilling throughout the city among other things.

Bellingham City Council meetings begin at 7 p.m. at City Hall or via Zoom. All are welcome to attend, and if you want to speak on the topic, signing up ahead of time is required.