New Rule Requires Seattle Landlords to Separate Rent and Parking Fees

The Seattle City Council passed an ordinance last week that requires landlords to separate parking and rental payments. Landlords of buildings with more than 10 apartment units will no longer be able to bundle parking fees into rental payments, meaning that those tenants who do not own a car will not be required to pay for a parking space. The City Council voted 7-1 in favor of the new law, which also allows for flexible use parking and eliminates parking requirements for affordable housing units. Seattle has been working to decrease congestion and carbon emissions in the city, and council members hope that this new rule will provide an additional incentive to residents considering giving up their cars. Read more.