Lacey, WA Zoning Overlays & Bonuses: Density Bonus Law (2026)

Chapter 11.10 of the Lacey Municipal Code, Planned Residential Development, holds the city's main density bonus. Under section 11.10.120(B), the density of the underlying zone governs unless a density increase is granted. The City of Lacey can approve an increase in dwelling unit density of up to 15 percent in the low density district, 20 percent in the moderate density district and 25 percent in the high density district, rounded to the nearest whole number, provided the environmental and recreational amenities the zoning title seeks are met. The code's computation formula multiplies by 1.2 and labels that number the incentive factor, and it computes streets at 20 percent of the gross land area regardless of the street area actually built.

Section 11.10.130 sets the price of the bonus: four of five amenities must be provided. They are significant recreational areas in the common open space, substantial retention of natural ground cover, bushes and trees, vegetated LID facilities that serve as a visual amenity, significant access to a natural water body, and substantial and exceptional landscaping beyond the minimum. Section 11.10.120(A) also requires not less than 30 percent of the gross land area as common open space.

Eligibility and process come from the rest of the chapter. The minimum site is a full block, or a portion of a block if it was a numbered block in the original plat, and two acres for previously unplatted areas under section 11.10.060. Section 11.10.050 requires a design superior to what would result without a planned residential development and specifically identified public benefits, including affordable housing. Applications go through the quasi-judicial process in LMC 11.04.050. Separately, section 16.19.035(B) allows a density bonus inside shoreline residential, urban conservancy and natural designations through an incentive dedication development agreement under Chapter 16.58.