News & Resources
Permitting Updates for Affordable Housing Projects
As part of Mayor Cherelle L. Parker’s historic Project H.O.M.E. Initiative, the Department of Planning and Development (DPD) and L&I are making some changes to streamline permitting for affordable housing projects. Two important permitting updates have been implemented for affordable housing projects:
I. Streamlined Processing
The permit application process has been streamlined for projects qualifying for a 10-day L&I ISC affordable housing review. If your project meets the criteria described in the DPD Affordable Housing Certification Summary:
1. Select the new “Affordable Housing” checkbox on your Zoning or Building Permit application.
2. Upload the new DPD Affordable Housing Project Certification Form with your application.
3. Your eCLIPSE application will be routed directly to DPD for certification.
4. If certified by DPD, your application will automatically receive a 10-business-day review by L&I ISC.
Important: You must select the "Affordable Housing" checkbox to receive the expedited review. Review times will not be retroactively shortened if this step is missed. The 10-day review timeline applies only to L&I ISC reviews. For other department timelines, please consult their respective service pages. To further reduce delays, remember to schedule a project meeting with L&I ISC for phased construction projects. These meetings can streamline both permitting and affordable housing certification processes.
2) Development Impact Tax Exemptions As of June 13, 2025, certain affordable housing permit applications filed on or after this date may be exempt from the Development Impact Tax, as provided under Bill No. 250212. To request this exemption:
1. On your building permit application in eCLIPSE, check both the “Affordable Housing” and “Development Impact Tax Exemption” boxes.
2. Upload the DPD Affordable Housing Project Certification Form as part of your application.
3. Your application will be routed directly to the DPD for review.
If DPD certifies that your project qualifies, the Development Impact Tax will be automatically waived in your application.