Is Washington a good place to open a short-term rental? Below are resources for regulations/guidelines, business license information, and local attractions to help start your research so you can answer that question.
*You’ll also want to conduct your own research to keep up with changing regulations or restrictions in your area and ensure you’re running a legal short-term rental.*
What draws tourists to Washington?
Washington has an abundance of outdoor adventures to enjoy at the different national and state parks. Explore the shorelines, enjoy tastings at the many wineries and breweries, soak in a bit of culture and art and the various world-class museums. Washington offers something for all types of visitors.
Washignton Short-Term Rental Market
Washington's Short-Term Rental Definition
A lodging that is not a hotel or motel or bed and breakfast, in which a dwelling unit, or a portion is offered or provided to a guest by a short-term rental operator for a fee for fewer than thirty consecutive nights.
A short-term rental doesn’t include:
- A dwelling unit that is occupied by the owner for at least six months during the calendar year and in which fewer than three rooms are rented at any time.
- A dwelling unit, or portion thereof, that is used by the same person for thirty or more consecutive nights.
- A dwelling unit, or portion thereof, that is operated by an organization or government entity that is registered as a charitable organization with the secretary of state, state of Washington, or is classified by the federal internal revenue service as a public charity or a private foundation, and provides temporary housing to individuals who are being treated for trauma, injury, or disease, or their family members.
State Requirements
Washington doesn’t require short-term rental owners to obtain specific licenses or permits for their rental property but check with local cities/counties because they may have these specific requirements. Check local land use zoning laws, as well, to determine if there are any restrictions in your area.
Do I need to Register my Short-term rental?
A specific short-term rental license or permit isn’t required at the state level. However, short-term rental owners must register their property as a business through the Washington State Department of Revenue the same as other types of businesses.
Short-Term Rental local Ordinances
Below are some of the popular locations that draw tourists to Washington. Each city or county may have their own short-term rental laws. Click on each to view the local ordinances.
Skykomish
Forks
Walla Walla
Washington Attractions
This map displays some of the local attractions and activities that regularly draw visitors to Washington.
Take a look at the location of these attractions in relation to some of the popular cities and maybe even some smaller markets in close proximity. This can provide a good place to start with your market research and eventually carving out a niche for your short-term rental.
Considering Washington?
Research the Numbers
Find Host Resources
Understanding the steps to get started, how to design the space for your target guests, creating a great guest experience are all important considerations. Visit our hosting hub for resources that can help you on your journey.
