New rules will allow 3-story buildings closer to businesses and the future light rail stop.

MOUNTLAKE TERRACE — New regulations could mean more townhomes in Mountlake Terrace.

The City Council on March 19 voted to change an existing code, making it easier to build the homes in the commercial district around a planned town center. The new zoning would act as a buffer between the business area and neighborhoods. Sound Transit is expected to open a light rail stop in the city by 2024, at the transit station west of the town center.

Now, buildings in the district can be three stories tall instead of two. This means the homes can have a garage and two floors of living space, said Christy Osborn, the city’s development director.

“There were some issues with the standards in that zone that were causing problems with developing townhomes,” Osborn said. “So it was just trying to tweak the code to try to do what it was intended to do originally.”

About 60 lots are available for construction. No one has applied for a building permit under the new rules, though there has been some interest, said Edith Duttlinger, the city’s senior planner.

“We expect someone would make an application within the next six months,” she said.

Developers also would have to follow new design guidelines for buildings, landscaping and parking.

Companies that have built other townhomes in Mountlake Terrace have inquired, Osborn said. More stores and restaurants are expected to open as people move in, she said. The community also has expressed the need for a grocery store.

Mountlake Terrace has a population of about 21, 290.

Stephanie Davey: 425-339-3192; sdavey@heraldnet.com; Twitter: @stephrdavey.