Permit Requirements: Auburn vs Seattle
How do permit requirements rules compare between Auburn, WA and Seattle, WA?
Auburn has fewer restrictions than Seattle.
Auburn, WA
King County
Auburn requires short-term rental operators to obtain a City business license and register with the Washington State Department of Revenue. Hosting platforms like Airbnb collect state lodging taxes.
View full Auburn rules →Seattle, WA
King County
Seattle requires STR operators to hold a City Business License Tax Certificate and a separate STR Operator's Regulatory License ($75/unit/year) under SMC Chapter 6.600. Operators are limited to 2 units; one must be their primary residence if operating 2. Non-primary-residence STRs must also register with RRIO.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Auburn | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| City business license | Required | - |
| State law | RCW 64.37 | - |
| Rental threshold | Under 30 days | - |
| Safety requirements | Smoke/CO detectors, extinguisher | - |
| Lodging tax | State and local apply | - |
| Code | - | SMC Chapter 6.600 |
| Operator License | - | $75/unit/year |
| Unit Cap | - | Max 2 units per operator |
| Primary Residence | - | Required if operating 2 units |
| RRIO | - | Required for non-primary-residence STRs |
| Contact | - | str@seattle.gov / (206) 386-1267 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Auburn FAQ
Do I need a special Auburn STR permit?
Auburn requires a general business license rather than a dedicated STR permit. You must also comply with state registration requirements under RCW 64.37.
Does Airbnb handle my taxes?
Airbnb collects and remits Washington state sales and lodging taxes. You are still responsible for city business license fees and compliance.
Seattle FAQ
Do I need a permit to list my property on Airbnb in Seattle?
Seattle requires STR operators to hold a City Business License Tax Certificate and a separate STR Operator's Regulatory License ($75/unit/year) under SMC Chapter 6.600. Operators are limited to 2 units; one must be their primary residence if operating 2. Non-primary-residence STRs must also...
What are the short-term rental registration requirements in Seattle?
Code: SMC Chapter 6.600. Operator License: $75/unit/year. Unit Cap: Max 2 units per operator. Primary Residence: Required if operating 2 units.
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