Issaquah, WA Zoning Overlays & Bonuses: Downtown Design Guide (2026)

The Olde Town design standards in Chapter 18.700 of the Issaquah Land Use Code exist to preserve and enhance the traditional downtown core and the historic character of the area. Section 18.700.010 lists six goals for new and redeveloped properties: build on the heritage of Olde Town, focus on building and landscaping, emphasize pedestrian movement, maintain the existing building scale, respect Issaquah Creek as a natural resource and amenity, and achieve distinctive gateways. Under the second goal, buildings and vegetation are to be the predominant elements of the townscape, with signs less prominent and parking lots and accessory structures generally concealed.

Section 18.700.020 sets who is covered. The chapter applies to properties zoned Cultural and Business District (CBD), Multifamily Medium (MF-M) and Multifamily High (MF-H) within the Olde Town subarea, and where there is a conflict its provisions supersede other design standards in the Code. Community Facilities properties adjacent to the CBD or the MF zones in the subarea must comply too, because Community Facilities land is bound by the development standards of the most restrictive adjacent zone under 18.506.010. Single-family residences in the CBD, MF-H and MF-M districts are exempt from 18.700.020 to 18.700.110 and must comply with 18.700.120 to 18.700.180 instead.

The standards apply to all development and redevelopment in the identified areas, but the degree to which each standard applies to a project must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis to achieve an overall design that meets the purpose and intent. Each standard comes with examples and illustrations. The code states that the graphic examples are not the only acceptable means of meeting a standard, and it encourages applicants and project designers to consider designs, styles and techniques not pictured.

Article II then sets the CBD standards. For entries, 18.700.030 requires a prominent, pedestrian-oriented entrance facing the primary street and adjacent to sidewalks, plazas and other pedestrian priority areas. The primary entrance must provide weather protection and business signage and must be visually prominent by incorporating at least one element from each group. The Group A options printed there include a recessed entrance, a canopy, a prominent roof form and a portico.