Burien's Zoning Code currently is being revised. In 1993, when Burien incorporated, we adopted most of King County's Zoning Code as an interim step. After adoption of Burien's Comprehensive Plan, we began re-writing the Zoning Code so that the zoning regulations would match the Comprehensive Plan. That process began in 1998 and is ongoing.

The new zoning code (Title 19 of the Burien Municipal Code) is organized using charts for each zone in the city. Using the Zoning Map, find the property you are interested in, and the corresponding zone. Then, find the set of use zone charts in Zoning Code Chapter 19.15 that correspond with the zone in which you're interested.

The first page of each set of charts provides any special regulations that apply to all properties in that zone, along with a brief description of the purpose and intent of the zone. On each following chart, along the left side are the uses that may be allowed in that zone. Along the top are the different types of regulations that apply (such as height limit and parking requirements).

Each row contains all of the basic regulations needed for each use. More details for each type of regulation can be found in the chapter referenced in the chart. Also, the far right column in each chart includes special regulations that apply to each use.

Finally, words in italics are defined in Zoning Code Chapter 19.10. A Word Of Caution: As we continue to revise the Zoning Code, portions of the Interim Zoning Code (Title 18 of the Burien Municipal Code) will be repealed. These may not be immediately reflected on the web version of the Interim Zoning Code. If you need to use any of the regulations in Title 18, please contact the Department of Community Development at (206) 248-5510 to determine if they are still in effect.