Council to consider interim ban on cell towers in residential zones

WALLA WALLA – The Walla Walla City Council will meet tonight (Wednesday) at 6:30 p.m. On the agenda is a proposed ordinance submitted by City Attorney Tim Donaldson about wireless communications facilities.

Passage of the proposed ordinance would create interim control and a moratorium on cellular tower applications in residential zones, restoring a past ban while further studies are conducted. The work plan requires city staff to complete studies by January 1, 2026, and present a proposed ordinance by February 25, 2026.

Recently, a federal lawsuit between AT&T and the city of Walla Walla over a proposed cell tower was dismissed. AT&T now plans to place an antenna at Russell Creek Road and Depping Road instead of in the city at the Blue Mountain Community Church site, 928 Sturm Avenue, which met opposition from several neighbors.

Donaldson explains that federal law allows local zoning for cellular towers but prohibits local governments from completely banning wireless facilities needed for cellular service. Further study is necessary, and the moratorium keeps things the same while the city assesses the need for residential cell tower sites. Donaldson noted that during a federal lawsuit about the 2023 permit denial, it seemed there are sufficient alternative options available.

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