Fife: Zoning Updates
The City of Fife is undertaking a comprehensive update to its zoning regulations as part of its 2024-2044 Periodic Update, proposing significant changes to existing zoning designations and introducing new ones to better reflect the city's evolving landscape and planning objectives. A key focus of these proposed changes is the area surrounding the future Sound Transit station, with the creation of two new zones: City Center North and City Center South. City Center North is specifically designed for the immediate vicinity north of the freeway, anticipating higher density development and mixed-use opportunities capitalizing on the transit infrastructure. In contrast, City Center South is envisioned as a buffer zone south of the freeway, providing a transition between the more intense development of City Center North and the existing lower density residential areas in central Fife.
Another new zoning designation, Civic Facilities - Restoration, is proposed to differentiate sites specifically designated for ecological restoration from general public access civic facilities, acknowledging the unique management and land use considerations for these areas. Conversely, several existing zoning designations are recommended for repeal. The Small Lot Residential zone is proposed for elimination as it currently applies to properties owned by the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and Tribal entities, suggesting these land ownership categories necessitate different planning considerations. The Neighborhood Commercial zone, currently applicable to the Benthien Loop and Willows neighborhoods, is identified as a transitional zoning that accommodated annexation from Pierce County. The proposed next step is to integrate these areas into the city's broader zoning framework through more specific designations. Similarly, the Neighborhood Residential zone, which allowed for more commercial development through Planned Residential Developments and shares similarities with Medium Density Residential, is largely built out. The proposal suggests rezoning these properties to Medium Density Residential for greater consistency.
In addition to these new and repealed zones, the city is proposing to rename two existing designations to enhance clarity and align with broader planning terminology. Single Family Residential is proposed to be renamed Low Density Residential, providing a more descriptive and less restrictive label. Public / Open Space is proposed to be renamed Civic Facilities, offering a more encompassing term for publicly owned or managed land serving civic purposes. Furthermore, the zoning map's color scheme is being updated to better align with nationwide planning standards, improving its usability and comprehension.
An alternative approach is being considered for the Firwood neighborhood, located in the southeastern corner of Fife. This area, bordered by the Puyallup River and Freeman Road, has historically maintained residential zoning. However, several proposals for varying intensities of industrial land uses in this neighborhood have emerged. The city staff has reviewed two specific alternatives regarding the extent and proximity of these potential industrial developments to existing residences. Additional alternatives and detailed maps are available for public review through the Planning Commission meeting records, allowing stakeholders to understand the full range of potential zoning scenarios for the Firwood neighborhood and other areas under consideration in this comprehensive zoning update.