Zoning & Size Limits
| Requirement | Tacoma, WA | Vancouver, WA |
|---|
| Allowed Zones | Residential zones (most) | Residential single-family zones |
| Max Size (Detached) | 1,000 sq ft living area | 1,000 sq ft gross floor area |
| Max Size (Attached) | 1,000 sq ft living area | 1,000 sq ft gross floor area |
| Max Height | 35 feet | 35 feet |
| Parking Required | Not required (per Washington HB 1337) | Not required within 1/2 mile of a major transit stop (per Wa |
| Owner Occupancy | Not required | Not required |
Setback Requirements
| Setback | Tacoma, WA | Vancouver, WA |
|---|
| Rear Setback | 15 feet (no setback required from an alley) | Confirm with Vancouver Planning (VMC 20.810.040) |
| Side Setback | 5 feet (8 feet if the main entrance faces the side property line) | Confirm with Vancouver Planning (VMC 20.810.040) |
| Front Setback | Per underlying zone; Confirm with Tacoma Permits | Confirm with Vancouver Planning (VMC 20.810.040) |
Permits & Timeline
| Detail | Tacoma, WA | Vancouver, WA |
|---|
| Permit Timeline | 40-60 days | 45-65 days |
| Permit Fees | $1,800-$2,800 | $1,900-$3,200 |
| Impact Fees | $500-$900 | $700-$1,300 |
| Pre-Approved Plans | Available for common types | Available |
Construction Costs
| Cost | Tacoma, WA | Vancouver, WA |
|---|
| Avg Build Cost | $135,000-$270,000 | $135,000-$270,000 |
| Cost Per Sq Ft | $125-$245 | $130-$260 |
| Garage Conversion | $65,000-$155,000 | $65,000-$155,000 |
| Prefab ADU | $100,000-$230,000 | $95,000-$220,000 |
Rental Income Potential
| Rental | Tacoma, WA | Vancouver, WA |
|---|
| 1BR Avg Rent | $1,300-$1,750/mo | $1,250-$1,700/mo |
| 2BR Avg Rent | $1,650-$2,300/mo | $1,600-$2,300/mo |
| Short-Term Rentals | Restricted to primary residence owners | Permitted with license |
| Est. ROI | 7-9% annual return | 7-9% annual return |
Which City Is Better for ADUs?
Tacoma scores 8/10 while Vancouver scores 7/10 on our ADU-friendliness index.
Tacoma edges ahead overall. Both cities offer viable ADU development opportunities — the best choice depends on your specific property, budget, and goals.
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