Zoning Overlays & Bonuses in Pierce County, WA (2026)
1 county-level rule, plus city-specific rules for 2 cities in Pierce County, Washington.
Verified from official government sources
Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Pierce County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply: see the city list below.
Density Bonus Law
Pierce County lets developers exceed zoning's maximum density if they build low-income affordable units under PCC 18A.65. Single-family zones can reach 133% of the base density (a 6 du/acre zone tops out at 7.98 du/acre) and multi-family or mixed-use zones can reach 120% of the base density.
Pierce County Affordable Housing Density Bonus
Some RestrictionsPierce County Code 18A.65.050(A)
1. The density within all zones may exceed the maximum density provisions called out in Title 18A PCC, Pierce County Development Regulations – Zoning, for the entire site (including that portion not accommodating low-income housing). ... Density Limitation: Single-family residential zones = 133% x maximum density (Max. Density = 6 x 1.33 = 7.98 du/a) Multi-family/Mixed Use zones that allow for ...
Zoning Overlays & Bonuses by City in Pierce County
2 cities in Pierce County have their own zoning overlays & bonuses rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.
All Pierce County ordinances
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