Thank you for attending our online open house and providing your comments and feedback about about new and emerging types of group homes, as well as mental health facilities called Enhanced Services Facilities (ESFs).

We have revised the proposed amendments to Pierce County’s development regulations based on public comments, stakeholder feedback, additional research and recent legislative changes.

The final staff recommendation to the Pierce County Planning Commission includes these updates:

• Omits the Level 5 Enhanced Services Facilities use type. The Department of Social and Health Services has clarified that individuals posing a risk and threat and who are involuntarily committed will not be permitted to reside in an ESF.
• Specifies that Level 3 and Level 4 ESFs may only admit residents who have been assessed as medically and psychiatrically stable.
• Establishes a maximum of one ESF per site. 

The proposal is scheduled for a virtual hearing of the Pierce County Planning Commission on July 28 at 9:30 a.m. For information on how to join the virtual hearing, email us or call (253) 798-3946.

Visit piercecountywa.gov/ESF to learn about the types of facilities and where they could be allowed, ask questions and submit comments. Your comments will be provided to the Pierce County Planning Commission and Pierce County Council for consideration in decision making.