Bellevue Approves Temporary Rules for Old Main Street Development

New ordinance requires preservation of historic facades along Main Street in Old Bellevue

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The Bellevue City Council has approved a temporary ordinance that places new development restrictions on a section of Main Street in Old Bellevue. The measure requires future projects to preserve or reconstruct pedestrian-oriented facades in order to maintain the neighborhood's 'unique and historic qualities'. The Interim Official Control (IOC) applies to properties located along Main Street between 100th and 106th Avenues.

Why it matters

This move by the city aims to protect the historic character and charm of Old Bellevue's Main Street district, which has seen increasing development pressure in recent years. The temporary rules are intended to give the city time to develop more permanent zoning and design guidelines for the area.

The details

The new IOC ordinance was passed in a 4-3 vote by the Bellevue City Council on February 10th. It requires any new development or renovations along the targeted section of Main Street to either preserve existing pedestrian-oriented building facades or reconstruct new facades that match the historic character of the neighborhood.

  • The Bellevue City Council approved the temporary ordinance on February 10, 2026.
  • The Interim Official Control (IOC) applies to properties along Main Street between 100th and 106th Avenues.

The players

Bellevue City Council

The governing body of the City of Bellevue, Washington that approved the temporary development restrictions on Old Bellevue's Main Street.

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What’s next

The city plans to use the temporary IOC ordinance to develop more permanent zoning and design guidelines for the Old Bellevue Main Street area.

The takeaway

This move by Bellevue aims to strike a balance between preserving the historic character of Old Bellevue's Main Street and allowing for appropriate development, demonstrating the city's commitment to maintaining the unique identity of this cherished neighborhood.