Seattle requires landlords to maintain rental properties free of pest infestations under the Housing and Building Maintenance Code (SMC 22.206). The city encourages integrated pest management (IPM) practices. Commercial pesticide applicators must be licensed by the Washington State Department of Agriculture under RCW 17.21.
Under Seattle's Housing and Building Maintenance Code (SMC 22.206), property owners and landlords must maintain residential rental properties in a condition free of rodent, insect, and pest infestations. Landlords are responsible for pest control in common areas and must address infestations in individual units when caused by building conditions rather than tenant negligence. Seattle encourages integrated pest management (IPM) approaches that minimize pesticide use while effectively managing pests. All commercial pesticide applicators operating in Seattle must hold a valid license from the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) under RCW 17.21. The city's own properties and parks follow IPM principles. Tenants must report pest issues promptly, and landlords must take reasonable action within a reasonable timeframe. For multi-unit buildings, building-wide treatment may be required when infestations affect common areas or spread between units. Bed bug infestations are specifically addressed, with landlords generally responsible for treatment costs unless the tenant demonstrably caused the infestation.
Landlords who fail to address pest infestations may face code enforcement actions from SDCI, including notices of violation and fines. Tenants may exercise remedies under the Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18) including rent withholding or repair-and-deduct for uninhabitable conditions. Unlicensed pesticide application is a violation of RCW 17.21.
Seattle, WA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in King County.
See how other cities in King County handle pest control.
See how Seattle's pest control rules stack up against other locations.
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