Short-term rentals in Seattle are lodgings that are rented for fewer than 30 consecutive nights. The exact requirements depend on whether you’re renting out your primary residence or a second (non-primary) unit.
While property owners can easily get licenses for short-term rentals, the rules are much stricter for tenants. In most cases, tenants may need additional documentation and permission to operate a short-term rental
Key Takeaways
- Seattle defines short-term rentals as stays of fewer than 30 consecutive nights, and the rules change depending on whether you rent your primary residence or a second property.
- Seattle caps operators at two short-term rentals total, and one must be the primary residence. The city also restricts short-term rentals in certain property types, including on-water and waterfront residences.
- Most operators must renew two key licenses annually: a business license tax certificate and a short-term rental operator’s license. You also need to display your license number in all ads and listings. Secondary units may also require RRIO registration before licensing.
Zoning and Property Restrictions
Seattle restricts short-term rentals in certain property types, including on-water and waterfront residences. Landlords may have up to two short-term rentals, but one must be the primary residence.
License and Registration Requirements
The licenses you need depends on whether you are renting out your primary residence (an entire home or a room) or a secondary property. To operate a short-term rental, you generally need the following, both of which are renewed annually:
- A business license tax certificate
- A short-term rental operator’s license
If you rent out a secondary unit that is not within your home, you also need to register the unit under Seattle’s Rental Registration and Inspection Ordinance (RRIO) before you apply for a short-term rental operator’s license. RRIO registrations renew every two years, and units may be subject to periodic inspections.
Other Requirements
All short-term rental operators must include the short-term rental operator’s license number on advertisements and online listings
Operational Requirements and Compliance Rules
Short-term rentals must meet Seattle operating standards, including:
- Posting safety information inside the rental
- Posting local contact information inside the rental
- Meeting the city code (building, safety, noise, and other requirements)
Get Your Listing Live Fast for Peak Event Demand with Apartments.com
When your market heats up around major events, timing can make the difference between empty nights and a full calendar. If short-term stays are permitted in your area, posting your rental quickly helps you start collecting inquiries and lining up qualified renters right away. With Apartments.com Rental Manager, you can create and publish a listing in a few steps, then start reaching renters without a complicated setup. Put your property in front of thousands of people searching for a place to stay and secure those in-demand dates.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal, tax, or financial advice. The information presented here is a general overview and is not all-encompassing; it may not cover every requirement, exception, permitting process, enforcement practice, or recent update in each location. Short-term rental laws and tax rules vary by location and can change, so verify current requirements and consult a qualified attorney or professional for guidance.
FAQs
Are short-term rentals legal in Seattle?
Yes, short-term rentals are legal in Seattle, as long as you follow the city’s rules. Seattle defines a short-term rental as lodging rented for fewer than 30 consecutive nights, and requirements vary depending on whether you’re renting your primary residence or a second property. Seattle also restricts short-term rentals in certain property types, including on-water and waterfront residences.
Do I need a license or permit in Seattle to operate a short-term rental?
Yes, to generally operate a short-term rental in Seattle, you need both of the following (which are renewed annually):
- Business license tax certificate
- Short-term rental operator’s license
If you’re renting out a secondary property, you also need a Rental Registration and Inspection Ordinance (RRIO) license that is renewed every two years.
Does a short-term rental have to be my primary residence in Seattle?
Not always, but Seattle limits how many you can operate. Landlords may have up to two short-term rentals, and one must be the primary residence.
