Yakima, WA Accessory Structures: ADU Rental Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- Cross-referenced rule
- YMC § 15.09.080 applies
- Applies to
- ADUs used as short-term rentals
- Also required
- regular ADU conditions still apply
- Enforcement
- city can revoke ADU approval
Summary
An ADU in Yakima can be rented out short-term, but only if it also satisfies the city's separate short-term rental standards in YMC § 15.09.080, on top of the regular ADU permit conditions.
ADUs used as a short term rental shall also comply with YMC § 15.09.080 and all other applicable codes.
C. Enforcement. The city retains the right with reasonable notice to inspect the ADU for compliance with the provisions of this section.
D. Elimination. The city retains the right with reasonable notice to withdraw occupancy approval if any of the requirements under subsection B of this section are violated. In the event the city withdraws occupancy, the property owner may:
1. If attached, merge the existing ADU to the single-family dwelling; or 2. If detached, use the building for an approved accessory use or remove the structure from the premises. (Ord. 2010-16 § 13 (part), 2010; Ord. 2016-029 § 1 (Exh. A) (part), 2016; Ord. 2018-047 § 1 (Exh. A) (part), 2018; Ord. 2019-044 § 1 (Exh. A) (part), 2019; Ord. 2020-001 § 1 (Exh. A) (part), 2020; Ord. 2022-011 § 1 (Exh. A), 2022)
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4980636; v1 updated 2026-08-03; through 08-03-2026).
Full Breakdown
YMC § 15.09.045(B)(12) does not ban ADUs from being used as short-term rentals: it cross-references the city's short-term rental standards, requiring compliance with YMC § 15.09.080 and all other applicable codes in addition to the twelve base ADU conditions (floor-area cap, parking, deed restriction, and the rest). That cross-referenced section adds its own permit and operating conditions, including a business license and front-yard parking screening, layered on top of the standard ADU rules.
Violations & Fines
An ADU operated as a short-term rental without meeting § 15.09.080's conditions is out of compliance with its ADU permit, and the city can withdraw ADU occupancy approval under § 15.09.045(D) with reasonable notice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rent my Yakima ADU out short-term?
What happens if my ADU short-term rental doesn't comply?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Yakima
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