The Laws
The rules we work under, in plain English.
Washington housing law changes fast, and Tacoma moves faster than most. Here is what is on the books, and what is currently on the table.
Tacoma's Landlord Fairness Code Initiative
Known as LFCI or Measure 1, effective December 8, 2023. The measure:
- Requires one of 17 specified just causes for eviction.
- Prohibits evictions during cold weather, November 1 through April 1.
- Prohibits evictions during the school year for households with children or educators, with limited exceptions.
- Creates protected tenant statuses, including military, first responders, seniors, and others.
- Bars eviction or rent increases where health and safety issues exist at the unit.
Reform is on the table
On October 28, 2025, Council Member Rumbaugh presented proposed changes to the LFCI, including:
- 1Aligning exemptions with Seattle's, including owner move-in and criminal activity affecting health and safety.
- 2Creating a pathway to address tenants causing substantive damage.
- 3Income-qualifying the winter eviction defense at or below 80% AMI, December 1 through March 1, with a small-landlord exemption.
- 4Consolidating late-fee and rent-notice rules into the Rental Housing Code.
This is what showing up looks like. Reform happens when frontline voices are in the room.
The Alliance is engaged in this process. Your account of what happens on the property is the most persuasive thing a lawmaker can hear.
This page summarizes local law for advocacy and education. It is not legal advice.