Occupancy Limits: Auburn vs Bellevue
How do occupancy limits rules compare between Auburn, WA and Bellevue, WA?
Auburn and Bellevue have similar restriction levels.
Auburn, WA
King County
Auburn follows Washington State Building Code (IRC) occupancy guidelines based on bedroom count and square footage. STRs commonly cap occupancy at 2 per bedroom plus 2 additional guests.
View full Auburn rules →Bellevue, WA
King County
Bellevue caps STR occupancy per IRC habitability rules and LUC 20.20.800. Industry standard is two guests per bedroom plus two additional. Multi-family STR uses cannot exceed 5 units or 20% of a building.
View full Bellevue rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Auburn | Bellevue |
|---|---|---|
| Building code | ACC Title 15 (IRC/IBC) | - |
| Industry standard | 2 per bedroom + 2 | - |
| Bedroom minimum | 70 sq ft + egress | - |
| State preemption | RCW 35A.21.310 | - |
| Detectors | Per WAC 51-51 | - |
| Bedroom Min | - | 70 sq ft first; 50 sq ft add |
| Ceiling Min | - | 7 feet |
| Typical Formula | - | 2 per bedroom + 2 |
| MF Use Cap | - | 5 units or 20% |
| Code | - | LUC 20.20.800; IRC |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Auburn FAQ
Does Auburn set a specific STR occupancy limit?
Not a citywide numerical cap. Occupancy is limited by building code minimums, septic/well capacity, and the operator's house rules.
Can I host large events or parties?
Even if building code allows the headcount, events may violate noise, parking, and party-house provisions. Most Auburn operators prohibit events in their listings.
Bellevue FAQ
How many guests can stay in a Bellevue Airbnb?
Occupancy is typically set at two guests per legal bedroom plus two additional, subject to IRC minimum square footage per bedroom and any house rules posted by the operator.
Are parties allowed at Bellevue short-term rentals?
House rules must state the maximum guest count, and events that exceed it are prohibited. Excess-occupancy events can be grounds for registration enforcement.
Compare other topics
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