Klicker introduces bill allowing some cafes in residential zones
By Terry Murry on Thursday, January 25th, 2024 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
OLYMPIA – Certain establishments could have more options for locations in Washington thanks to a new bipartisan bill from State Rep. Mark Klicker (R-Walla Walla) that would require cities and towns to allow neighborhood cafes that meet certain requirements to be permitted in residential zones.
House Bill 2252 states that a city or town must allow neighborhood cafes to be permitted in any zone allowing residential uses if the its total gross floor area is 2,000 square feet or less, outdoor seating does not take up more than 30 percent of the cafe’s gross floor area; if alcoholic beverages are offered, food must also be offered; and if the hours of operation are between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. It also prohibits drive-through service.
“Neighborhood cafes are popular with many folks in smaller communities because they give people easier access to their services and create a stronger sense of community,” Klicker said.
The bill is currently scheduled for a vote by the House of Representatives Local Government Committee on Friday. In addition to Klicker, it is sponsored by a Republican and a Democrat.
