ADU Regulations in Kent, Washington
Located in King County south of Seattle, Kent's ADU regulations follow Washington's HB 1337 which limits local restrictions. The city's transit-oriented zones near Sound Transit stations qualify for parking exemptions.
Below is a summary of the key zoning rules applicable to Accessory Dwelling Units in Kent as of 2026. Regulations are governed by Washington's HB 1337 (2023) which limits local ADU restrictions statewide.
| Regulation | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Maximum Size | 1,000 sq ft |
| Property Setbacks | 5 ft rear, 5 ft side |
| Extra Parking Required | Not required (near transit) |
| Owner Occupancy | Not required |
Additional Local Requirements for Kent
- ADU by right in all residential zones
- Minimum 200 sq ft
- WA HB 1337 prohibits excessive restrictions
- No short-term rental use allowed
📥 Download the Complete Kent ADU Cheat Sheet
Get the step-by-step permit checklist, official government forms, direct planning department contacts, and estimated fees — all in one printable PDF for Kent, Washington.
Download the Complete Kent ADU Cheat Sheet — $12Frequently Asked Questions About ADUs in Kent
Can I build an ADU in Kent?
Kent follows Washington state law (HB 1337). Parking is waived within proximity to transit stops.
How big can my ADU be in Kent?
What is the maximum ADU size allowed in Kent? ADUs in Kent can be up to 1,000 square feet, subject to the property's zoning and lot coverage limits. Always confirm the exact allowed size with the Kent planning department before designing your project.
What about setbacks and other requirements in Kent?
What are the setback requirements for an ADU in Kent? ADUs in Kent generally require setbacks of 5 ft rear, 5 ft side. California state law (AB 68) limits local setback requirements to 4 feet for existing structures, but always verify with local zoning.
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