Unveiling Washington State’s Hidden Rental Rules and Prime Seasons for a Visit
Nestled in the Pacific Northwest, Washington State boasts a rich tapestry of contrasting landscapes and experiences. From the misty shores of its rugged coastline to the towering peaks of the Cascade Mountains, it is nature's canvas painted with unspoiled beauty. Yet, Washington isn't just about picturesque outdoors—its urban centers pulse with life and innovation. Seattle, the state's largest city, is a beacon of technology, music, and coffee culture, while Spokane, Tacoma, and Bellevue bring in their distinct flavors of arts, history, and urban allure.
Given this dynamic blend of urban sophistication and natural splendor, it's no surprise that Washington has become a magnet for tourists and travelers alike. This allure has also sparked a burgeoning market for short-term and mid-term accommodations, compelling the state to introduce a framework of regulations. Striking a balance between preserving the local charm and ensuring a streamlined visitor experience, these rules have become crucial for both hosts and visitors to comprehend.
Navigating the Rental Regulation Maze
In recent years, the vacation rental market in Washington has undergone changes due to local regulations. Concerns about preserving the local environment and creating a safe and mutually beneficial visitor experience for all have led to a series of new rules and regulations.
1. Local Jurisdiction
In Washington, regulatory authority predominantly rests with local jurisdictions, which means cities and counties are at the helm of defining rental rules. For instance, while the state provides a broad outline, Seattle might have intricate regulations that diverge from a neighboring city like Bellevue.
2. Licensing and Registration
Securing a license isn't just a checkbox—it's a necessity. Hosts need to obtain a specific business license tailored for rentals and ensure their property is registered as a short-term rental. This procedure not only allows the city to monitor active rentals but also to ensure tax compliance and adherence to local laws.
According to Proper Insurance, the City of Bellingham recently adopted a new ordinance that requires all short-term rental (STR) owners and operators to obtain a vacation rental permit and pay a fee. In addition to the permit, each owner/operator is limited to one STR in all residential areas, and the dwelling must be the owner’s primary residence 270 days of the year, including a limit of 95 days that the property can be rented per year. Bellingham Municipal Code Section 20.10.037 goes more into depth on the exceptions to these limits on vacation rentals.
3. Occupancy Limits
Washington's commitment to preserving the essence of its neighborhoods has led to caps on the number of occupants per rental. These limitations consider factors like property size, location, and infrastructure capabilities, ensuring minimal disruption to the community.
The Seattle City Council recently passed a new set of laws also restricting owners to the number of units they can rent out. According to this ordinance, property owners are only permitted to rent a maximum of two properties. However, vacation rental hosts already operating prior to this ordinance in the Seattle downtown urban center, South of Olive Way and North of Cherry Street, are not limited to the number of STRs they operate.
4. Tax Collection & Insurance Requirements
Much like hotels, short-term rentals in Washington are not exempt from taxes. Depending on the jurisdiction, hosts may need to collect and remit various levies, including but not limited to lodging taxes. Some platforms, like Airbnb, might automate this process, but it's always advisable for hosts to verify their tax obligations.
Insurance requirements may also be asked of STR owners and property managers to ensure the correct amount of coverage is secured for the property.
In September 2021, Chelan County passed new laws that required primary liability insurance of no less than $1,000,000 in addition to changes to regulation zones, number of units allowed, existing units, operational standards, and the permit process.
5. Safety Requirements
More than just a place to rest, accommodations should be sanctuaries of safety. Regulations dictate that properties must fulfill certain safety criteria. This might range from basic requirements like working smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms to more detailed mandates, such as emergency exit diagrams.
6. Duration Limits
Some jurisdictions have introduced a novel concept: capping the number of nights a property can be rented annually, especially if the primary resident is absent. This aims to ensure that the short-term rental market doesn't negatively impact housing availability for long-term residents.
Delving Deeper into Washington’s Peak Season
Washington, with its unique geographies and climatic zones, offers varied experiences throughout the year. Recognizing the distinct offerings of each season can ensure you're visiting at the ideal time to match your interests.
1. Spring (April to June): Spring is a delightful time in Washington. The state bursts into bloom, and festivals, like the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, are in full swing. With temperatures that are not too hot nor too cold, outdoor enthusiasts can explore trails, national parks, and waterfronts comfortably. It's also a favorable time for birdwatching, as migratory birds return, and native species become more active.
2. Summer (July to September): This is the peak tourist season. Days are warm and dry, perfect for hiking, beach visits, and exploring cities like Seattle. Experiencing the least amount of rainfall, summer offers the best weather for outdoor activities. From kayaking in the Puget Sound to hiking the trails of Mount Rainier, the options are endless. Summer hosts an array of festivals, including the renowned Seattle International Film Festival and numerous local county fairs. The Pacific coastline becomes a hub for beach-goers, surfers, and those looking to explore tidal pools. However, expect higher accommodation prices due to demand.
3. Fall (October to November): Washington's forests transform into a mesmerizing palette of gold, orange, and red. Regions like the Olympic Peninsula and the Cascade Loop offer unforgettable fall foliage drives. This is a prime time for agritourism. Visit apple orchards in Wenatchee, the "Apple Capital of the World," or join a wine-tasting tour in the flourishing vineyards of Yakima Valley. Witness the remarkable journey of salmon returning to their birthplaces to spawn, particularly in places like the Ballard Locks in Seattle.
4. Winter (December to March): While winter brings colder temperatures and snow in higher altitudes, it's the best time for winter sports enthusiasts. Resorts in areas like the Cascades become hubs for skiing and snowboarding. Cities like Seattle and Bellevue dazzle with holiday lights, markets, and festivities, but between December and February, the Skagit River Valley becomes the winter home to one of the largest congregations of bald eagles in the U.S., offering a unique wildlife viewing opportunity.
The best time to visit this beautiful corner of the country would be July through September during peak season. Washington state can be pretty busy all year round, but by choosing the best time of year for your visit, you’re sure to have a wonderful time.
The chart below, with data provided by industry-leading AirDNA, shows the increase in demand in the summer months of the year during Seattle, Washington’s peak season.
Washington's unique blend of urban and natural attractions makes it a year-round destination. For those looking to rent a property or find accommodations, understanding the evolving landscape of rental regulations is crucial. And regardless of when you choose to visit, the Evergreen State promises a memorable experience. Book your monthly vacation to Washington state and explore the beauty of the Pacific Northwest atmonthlyrentalsbyowner.com.