Yakima's Accessory Structures: The Rules That Matter
Every city handles accessory structures a little differently. In Yakima, Washington, there are 3 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.
ADU Rules
Yakima allows one accessory dwelling unit per single-family lot as a permitted use, capped at 1,000 square feet, with matching setbacks, required parking, and a recorded deed restriction, though 2023 state law now overrides the one-ADU cap.
Key details: Floor area cap: 1,000 sq ft. Code text allows: one ADU per lot. State law (HB 1337): requires two ADUs allowed. Required: recorded deed restriction. Parking: per YMC Ch. 15.06.
The city may inspect an ADU with reasonable notice and can withdraw occupancy approval for violations of the § 15.09.045(B) conditions, forcing the owner to merge the unit into the main dwelling or convert it to an approved accessory use.
Shed & Carport Rules
Yakima lets homeowners build a detached storage shed up to 200 square feet without a building permit under its residential code; larger sheds and other occupancy types need one.
Key details: Residential exemption: Up to 200 sq ft. Other occupancies: Lower 120 sq ft cap. Covers: One-story, non-habitable structures. Citation: YMC § 11.22.R105.2.
Building an oversized shed without a permit is a misdemeanor under YMC § 11.01.010, up to a $250 fine, 90 days in jail, or both, with each day a separate offense.
Yakima is more permissive than most cities when it comes to shed & carport rules. That said, there are still limits.
ADU Rental Restrictions
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.
Key details: 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.
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.
The Bottom Line
Yakima's accessory structures rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Yakima is broadly strict or permissive.
This guide is based on Yakima's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.