Washington Town Approves 6 Month Storage Moratorium

On April 27, the city council of Cashmere, Wash., voted 4 to 1 to adopt a six-month moratorium on new mini-storage facilities across all zoning districts, formalizing a discussion that has been ongoing in recent meetings.

The city has approved a temporary pause on new mini-storage developments across all zoning districts while it works to clarify rules governing where and how these facilities can be built.

Officials explained that the moratorium is meant to give planners time to review existing zoning policies and evaluate potential impacts, especially in areas where storage facilities might clash with nearby uses.

Mayor Jim Fletcher emphasized that the issue is not simply whether mini-storage should be allowed, but under what conditions. He noted that the city needs to define appropriate standards for different zones rather than taking a blanket yes-or-no approach.

Councilmembers raised concerns about the effects such developments could have on neighboring residential areas, including lighting, noise, and overall compatibility. While industrial zones were generally viewed as suitable, some members pointed out that current rules could permit storage facilities in locations that may not match community expectations.

The moratorium will last six months unless the council chooses to extend it. In the meantime, city staff and planning officials are expected to develop recommendations for updated zoning regulations and design standards.

City leaders said the intent is not to ban mini-storage altogether, but to ensure future projects are thoughtfully placed and aligned with the city’s long-term planning goals.