Spokane, WA Accessory Structures: ADU Rental Restrictions (2026)

Spokane Municipal Code 17C.316.040, adopted in September 2023, allows short-term rentals (under 30 days) in all residential zones citywide. An ADU may be operated as an STR if the owner obtains a City of Spokane business license, an STR permit, posts the permit number on listings, ensures a 30-minute local-contact response time, and meets all building, fire, and life-safety standards. Annual renewal is required. Washington State sales and lodging taxes apply (combined ~8-10%) collected by the operator or platform under RCW 82.08 and RCW 67.28. Long-term rentals of an ADU (30+ days) are unrestricted under SMC 17C.300 and Washington HB 1337 (RCW 36.70A.681 prohibits the city from banning long-term rental of an ADU). Tenants receive Just Cause Eviction protection under SMC Chapter 10.27 once the tenancy reaches the threshold. Washington's Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18) governs leases, security deposits, and habitability. Combined ADU+STR use on the same lot triggers the SMC 17C.300.110 6-month owner-occupancy rule effective July 11, 2025 - if both units are rented short-term, the owner must occupy one of them more than 6 months per year. Spokane does not have rent control; Washington state law (RCW 35.21.830) prohibits Washington cities from adopting residential rent control.