The new year means change — for people and for the rulebooks.

The Bainbridge Island Review has compiled a list of code updates, laws, ordinances and zoning requirements going into effect in 2026, passed by the city of Bainbridge Island. The updates will have an impact on BI residents, businesses and government operations, and there’s more yet to come.

1. Readymade plans for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are now up to city code.

In an effort to increase rental housing stock, the Kitsap Regional Coordinating Council (KRCC) — a group that facilitates conversations about issues and projects between local government entities in Kitsap County, including cities, tribes, ports, Kitsap Transit and more — created a set of one-size-fits-all architectural plans for ADUs that are available for use by residents.

The plans outline six customizable styles of building, each with a different layout and square footage, that are already up to local code and “pre-approved” for construction, which can expedite the permitting process. With COBI’s approval, residents in all four cities can take part in the program.

2. There are new affordable housing development standards in Winslow, for the time being.

In September, the BI City Council passed a temporary ordinance to allow additional zoning capacity for housing projects earmarked as 100% affordable in the Ferry and Central Core districts of the Winslow area, east of Highway 305 — a specific category of project which described the city’s proposed 92-unit affordable housing building at 625 Winslow Way. The ordinance is temporary, with a sunset date of June 30, but an environmental appeal has put the planning process on ice until the hearing Jan. 28.

3. City procedure for public records disclosure is now up-to-date.

The city overhauled its public records practices to catch up to modern and state standards in 2025, a playbook that had not been improved since 2011. While this did not change the types of records the public has access to, the update did clarify the request process, designate a Public Records Officer, reiterate that some information is subject to redaction, and implements a fee structure.

4. Requirements for takeout food service containers and utensils have been walked back a bit.

Part of COBI’s waste-reduction strategy targets disposable serviceware, in an effort to limit the amount of trash created by the restaurant industry on the island. In 2026, businesses serving food or beverages on Bainbridge will have a shorter list of containers that are required to be home-compostable, will no longer be required to charge 25¢ per disposable cup, and hot food can now be wrapped in metal foil.