23.34.020

A. Functions. The dual functions of the LR3 zone are to: 1. Provide opportunities for a variety of multifamily housing types in existing multifamily neighborhoods, and along arterials that have a mix of small to moderate scale residential structures; and 2. Accommodate redevelopment in areas within regional centers, urban centers, neighborhood centers, and Station Area Overlay Districts in order to establish multifamily neighborhoods of moderate scale and density. B. Locational criteria. The LR3 zone is most appropriate in areas generally characterized by the following conditions: 1. The area is either: a. Located in a regional center, an urban center, a neighborhood center, or a Station Area Overlay District where new development could help establish a multifamily neighborhood of moderate scale and density; b. Located in an existing multifamily neighborhood in or near a regional center, an urban center, a neighborhood center, or a Station Area Overlay District, or on an arterial street, and characterized by a mix of structures of low and moderate scale; c. On lots within 125 feet of a street with a frequent transit route; or d. On a lot greater than 20,000 square feet that does not abut lots zoned Neighborhood Residential over a substantial area; 2. The area is near neighborhood commercial zones with comparable height and scale; 3. The area would provide a transition in scale between LR1 and/or LR2 zones and more intensive multifamily and/or commercial zones; 4. The area has street widths that are sufficient for two-way traffic and parking along at least one curb; 5. The area is well served by public transit; 6. The area is located near arterial streets that can accommodate anticipated vehicular circulation; 7. The area is well supported by existing or projected facilities and services used by residents, including retail sales and services, parks, and community centers, and has good pedestrian access to these facilities. C. The LR3 zone is also appropriate in the Delridge High Point Neighborhood Revitalization Area, as shown in Map A for 23.34.020, provided that the LR3 zone designation would facilitate a mixed-income housing development initiated by the Seattle Housing Authority or other public agency, a property use and development agreement is executed subject to the provisions of Chapter 23.76 as a condition to any rezone, and the development would serve a broad public purpose. Map A for 23.34.020: Delridge High Point Revitalization Area—North and South Halves D. Except as provided in this subsection 23.34.020.D, properties designated as environmentally critical may not be rezoned to an LR3 designation, and may remain LR3 only in areas predominantly developed to the intensity of the LR3 zone. The preceding sentence does not apply if the environmentally critical area either: 1. was created by human activity, or 2. is a designated peat settlement, liquefaction, seismic or volcanic hazard area, or flood prone area, or abandoned landfill. (Ord. 127375 , § 14, 2025; Ord. 126855 , § 3, 2023; Ord. 123495, § 10, 2011; Ord. 121700 § 5, 2004; Ord. 120694 , § 1, 2001; Ord. 119714 § 4, 1999; Ord. 119691 § 1, 1999; Ord. 119637 § 1, 1999; Ord. 119635 § 1, 1999; Ord. 119521 § 1, 1999; Ord. 119403 § 5, 1999; Ord. 119322 § 5, 1998; Ord. 119217 § 6, 1998; Ord. 118794 § 10, 1997; Ord. 117430 , § 11, 1994; Ord. 116795 , § 3, 1993: Ord. 114886 § 2, 1989.)