Federal Way vs Kent
How do rental registration rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Kent, WA?
Federal Way and Kent have similar restriction levels.
Federal Way, WA
King County
Federal Way does not operate a citywide rental registration or inspection program. Landlords follow the Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act and Federal Way business license rules for rental activity.
View full Federal Way rules →Kent, WA
King County
Kent does not operate a citywide rental registration or licensing program. Landlords follow the Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act and Kent business license rules for property management.
View full Kent rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Federal Way | Kent |
|---|---|---|
| Citywide Registration | Not required in Federal Way | Not required in Kent |
| Business License | May apply, FWRC Title 12 | May be required under KCC 5.01 |
| Rent Control | Preempted by RCW 35.21.830 | Preempted by RCW 35.21.830 |
| State Law | RCW 59.18 governs rentals | RCW 59.18 Residential Landlord-Tenant Act |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Federal Way FAQ
Do I need to register my Federal Way rental with the city?
No, Federal Way has no citywide rental registration program. You may still need a Federal Way business license depending on the scope of your rental activity. Call Federal Way Finance at 253-835-2526.
Can Federal Way limit how much my landlord raises the rent?
No. RCW 35.21.830 preempts local rent control, so neither Federal Way nor King County can cap rent increases. State law does require at least 60 days written notice before a rent increase.
Kent FAQ
Do I need to register my Kent rental with the city?
No, Kent has no citywide rental registration program. You may still need a Kent business license depending on the scope of your rental activity. Call Kent Finance at 253-856-5200.
Can Kent cap how much my landlord raises the rent?
No. Washington RCW 35.21.830 preempts local rent control, so neither Kent nor King County can cap rent increases. State law requires 60 days written notice before a rent increase.
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