Proposed Tukwila Municipal Code Updates and Revisions

Overview

The City of Tukwila Parks and Recreation Department is proposing an update and revision to several Tukwila Municipal Code (TMC) Chapters:

• Chapter 12.04 Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan
• Chapter 12.08 Park Rules and Regulations
• Chapter 12.12 Foster Golf Links Fees

Tukwila Parks and Recreation is seeking written public comments about the proposed changes, which will be summarized and included in reports to the Tukwila Parks Commission and Tukwila City Council this spring (March – May).

Several of these chapters have not been updated in over 10 years and business practices have evolved in that time, and new recreation trends have emerged that require contemporary guidance.  Additionally, provisions in the Tukwila Municipal Code have not kept pace with relevant case law and changes to state laws.

Ensuring park rules and regulations are clear, concise and enforceable will assist park visitors, program participants, and staff.  The timing for these updates also coincides with the City’s first park ranger starting in late spring and City preparations to host thousands of visitors associated with the FIFA 2026 World Cup events.

Summary of Proposed Code Changes by Chapter

• Chapter 12.04 Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan

04.010 Adopted

Removes a specific year reference and notes that the PROS Plan is the City’s primary planning document for guiding how the City manages, improves and expands its park and recreation system.

04.040 Six-Year Master Plan for Foster Golf Course

Repeals this section, the Foster Golf Course Business Plan is incorporated into the PROS Plan.

View Proposed Code Edits

• Chapter 12.08 Park Rules and Regulations

Repeals the entire Chapter and replaces it with new park rules and regulations to reflect current state law, case law, business practices, and new recreation trends.

Topics addressed include vaping, unmanned aerial vehicles (e.g., drones), damage to park property, trespass, park ranger, establishment of fees/charges, acceptance of donations and sponsorships, and enables creation of a code of conduct for program participants.

View Proposed Code Edits

• Chapter 12.12 Foster Golf Links

Repeals the entire Chapter.  Fee-setting authority is addressed in Chapter 12.08. 

View Proposed Code Edits

Tell Us What You Think

Written public comments about the proposed park code changes will be accepted through March 30, 2026.  Written comments can be provided in the following ways:

• Web: Review the proposed changes and fill out an online form.
• Email: parksrec@tukwilawa.gov
• Mail: Paper copies of this fact sheet and a comment form are available at the front counters of the Tukwila Community Center, Foster Golf Links, and City Hall during regular business hours.  Completed forms may be dropped off at these locations or mailed to the attention of Tukwila Parks and Recreation – Park Code Changes, 12424 42^nd Ave S, Tukwila, WA

Timeline and Next Steps

• March 11 – Parks Commission Meeting (5:30 p.m., Tukwila Community Center)

Proposed draft TMC amendments

• March 12-26 – Written Comment Period (2 weeks)

Website and social media announcements

• March 27-March 30

Summarize public comments

Revise the draft TMC amendments

• April 8 – Parks Commission Meeting (5:30 p.m., Tukwila Community Center)

Final TMC Amendments- recommendation to City Council via CSS

• April 27 – Community Services and Safety Committee (CSS)

Review recommended TMC Amendments- recommend moving forward to COW

• May 11 – Committee of the Whole (COW)

Review recommended TMC Amendments- recommend adoption

• May 18 – Council Regular Meeting

Adoption of proposed TMC amendments

• June 1 – Effective date of new code provisions

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are these changes necessary?

Park rules and regulations have not been updated in over 10 years.  Changes are needed to reflect case law, changes in State law, incorporate current business practices and better align the code with other Tukwila Municipal Code (TMC) chapters.  It will allow for more consistent management of Tukwila’s parks and recreation system.

What are the consequences for not complying with provisions of the revised code?

In most cases, when park visitors and program participants are contacted due to a concern or issue associated with their behavior or conduct, they respectfully comply.  In rare cases, additional tools and resources are necessary to address the matter.  Unless otherwise noted, failure to comply with the park code is a civil infraction, leading to a potential citation and fine.  In rare circumstances, a visitor or participant may be issued an expulsion/trespass order, which is a misdemeanor and can lead to arrest if egregious.