Washington (WA) Short-Term Rental Regulations
Compare STR rules across 1 Washington city. License fees, tax rates, and operating rules. Verified May 2026.
At a Glance
Regulatory Climate and Primary Residence fields derived from city-level archetype data. Preemption status verified against state statutes (verified against state legislative records).
📊 By the Numbers
- 1 city covered in Washington
- License fee range: $75–$75
- 1 city rated investor-friendly
- Combined lodging tax: Seattle combined: 15.6% (state + King County + city)
Source: City-level data from official municipal sources, cross-verified May 2026.
Regulatory Overview
Washington has no state-level STR preemption, but Seattle stands out as a rare West Coast bright spot. Seattle requires a $75/year license with no primary residence requirement, no night caps, and no density limits. The combined lodging tax is 15.6% (state + King County + City), but platforms collect and remit. For small STR investors, Seattle offers one of the most accessible regulatory environments on the West Coast.
City Comparison — 1 City
All Washington cities covered by RentPermitted, ranked and compared:
| City | Status | License Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Seattle | Legal with Permit | $75/year |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many cities in Washington does RentPermitted cover?
We cover 1 city in Washington: Seattle.
Does Washington have state-wide STR laws?
Washington regulates short-term rentals primarily at the city level. There is no comprehensive state-wide STR law. Check each individual city page for specific license requirements, fees, and operating rules.
Which Washington city is best for STR investment?
Seattle is the only city we currently cover in Washington. Seattle is a rare West Coast bright spot for small STR investors. No primary residence requirement, no night cap, cheap license. The 2-unit operator limit is the constraint — this is a small-investor
Similar States
States with a comparable investor-friendly regulatory profile:
2 city page(s)
Disclaimer: Data sourced from official Washington city websites and state statutes. Regulations change. Verify with local authorities before making investment decisions. Last comprehensive review: May 2026.
RentPermitted is not a government agency. We compile public information for educational purposes.