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Short-Term Rentals

Short-Term Rentals in Vancouver, WA: What Residents Actually Need to Know

By CityRuleLookup Editorial Team

If you live in Vancouver or are thinking about moving there, short-term rentals are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Vancouver has 2 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of short-term rentals, and some of them might surprise you.

Insurance Requirements

Vancouver Municipal Code Chapter 20.835 (Short-Term Rentals), adopted by the City Council on December 18, 2023, requires every STR permit applicant to submit proof of current, valid liability insurance covering the rental in accordance with RCW 64.37.050. State law sets the floor at one million dollars in primary liability coverage, or equivalent coverage provided through a hosting platform, before any STR transaction may occur in Washington.

Key details: City Code: VMC 20.835.050. State Law: RCW 64.37.050. Minimum Liability: $1,000,000. Permit Cap: 870 STRs citywide. Permit Fee: $250 one-time.

Operating an STR in Vancouver without the liability coverage required by VMC 20.835.050 and RCW 64.37.050 is a basis for denial or revocation of the city STR permit. Operating without a valid permit is enforceable under VMC Title 20 and the city's general code-enforcement procedures, which can include civil penalties and orders to cease operation pending compliance.

Short-Term Rental Permits

Vancouver adopted an STR ordinance in December 2023 requiring all short-term rental operators to obtain a city business license and a $250 one-time STR permit. STRs are defined as residential properties available for stays under 30 days.

Key details: Permit Required: Yes, $250 one-time fee. Business License: Also required. Definition: Stays under 30 days. Adopted: December 18, 2023. Local Contact: Required.

Operating without a permit results in fines and enforcement action. Repeated violations may result in loss of ability to obtain future permits.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Vancouver actively enforces its short-term rental permits requirements.

The Bottom Line

Vancouver's short-term rentals 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 Vancouver is broadly strict or permissive.

These rules come from Vancouver's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.