New to the planning process? Start here with COB’s FAQ about the planning and design process.
Sunset Commons
Redevelop vacant Department of Transportation (DOT) site between E. Sunset Drive and E. Illinois into housing units.
This project began its planning process in 2007. COB has issued final approval to move forward with the new subdivision, and construction will begin in early-mid May, 2022. All heavy excavating and underground utility construction will be supported via access from Sunset Dr. to the maximum extent possible, excluding those activities that require construction within the Illinois St. right-of-way or activities that must logistically be accessed from Illinois St. Access related to the grading, concrete and paving work for the southern entry and lane may be accessed from Illinois Street. We have no estimate on duration of construction.
PROPOSED REZONE: Property located at 2948 James Street (formerly Jerns Funeral Home) in Area 1A of the Sunnyland Neighborhood (SE corner of James and Sunset) to be rezoned from Residential, Single to Residential Multi (High Density). A public hearing was held in February 2022 and City Council has now approved rezoning the property to Residential Multi Planned. Look for future public comment periods related to the development concept and design review.
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
PROPOSED PROJECT(s): Application to build new, or convert an existing accessory building to a dwelling, or to convert a portion of a single-family home to a separate dwelling.
ADUs are allowed in all residential neighborhoods in Bellingham, as of April 2018.
You may receive a planning notice in the mail if one of your close neighbors has applied for a permit for an ADU on their property. To comment, please follow the instructions at the end of the notice. Comment periods are typically open for 2 weeks from the date of the notice.
Please note: the SNA does not post individual ADU application notices. All current planning notices for the City of Bellingham are available here.