Lynnwood outlines preapproved ADU program modeled on Seattle to speed permits

Community planning manager Carl Umgren briefed the council on a proposal to create a preapproved accessory dwelling unit (ADU) program aimed at accelerating housing production in Lynnwood. Staff said the program would preapprove building envelopes and curated designs, in a model similar to Seattle's ADU program, allowing replicated review and a faster permitting path for common lot types.

The program would proceed in two phases: a phase-1 submission and licensing step to identify candidate designs and estimate licensing and construction costs; and a phase-2 criteria review to ensure a variety of architectural types and broad applicability to Lynnwood's typical lot sizes. Carl Umgren said the city will publish a call for submissions to designers starting May 20 through July and expects to review initial submittals in July, with a first round of public-facing approvals in late fall.

Council members asked how the city will provide cost information and whether the program could effectively recommend contractors. Staff said the city cannot recommend specific contractors but intends to post past construction cost examples and contact information for designers so applicants can see historical cost ranges and connect with designers who have worked on similar projects. Staff also said the licensing model will require designers to maintain preapproved plans to current codes and that the program aims to offset permitting staff time by expediting reviews for preapproved plans.

Council members raised liability and warranty questions about preapproved plans; staff responded that the ADU process would follow existing building-permit accountability and that homeowners remain ultimately responsible for site-specific engineering, utility, and stormwater considerations.

Next steps: staff will advertise the call for submissions beginning May 20, review designs in July, and return with a status update and permit-ready preapproved plans in the fall.