Burien Planning Commission Reviews Rising Fees, Mother-in-Law Units, and Growth Concerns

The Burien Planning Commission met May 13 to review proposed Transportation Impact Fees and a potential Transfer of Development Rights program. Current TIF charges of $948 per new single-family home could rise to over $11,000 by 2029. The commission also discussed whether to charge fees on Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), which are currently exempt despite state law allowing reduced fees. Residents raised concerns about oversized ADUs, zoning consistency near schools, and whether the city exceeded state housing requirements.