Permit Requirements: Federal Way vs Kent
How do permit requirements rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Kent, WA?
Federal Way and Kent have similar restriction levels.
Federal Way, WA
King County
Federal Way STR operators must comply with RCW 64.37, which requires liability insurance, on-site safety info, and tax registration. A Federal Way business registration is also required.
View full Federal Way rules βKent, WA
King County
Kent requires short-term rental operators to obtain a business license and comply with RCW 64.37, which mandates liability insurance, guest safety info, and contact registration.
View full Kent rules βKey Facts Comparison
| Fact | Federal Way | Kent |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | RCW 64.37 | RCW 64.37 |
| Minimum Insurance | 1 million dollars | - |
| City Registration | Federal Way endorsement required | - |
| Tax Registration | WA DOR required | WA DOR required |
| Rental Duration | Under 30 days | Under 30 days |
| Minimum Liability Insurance | - | $1 million |
| Kent License | - | Business license required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Federal Way FAQ
Do I need a permit to run an Airbnb in Federal Way?
Yes. Operators need a Washington state business license with Federal Way endorsement and must comply with RCW 64.37 insurance, safety, and tax requirements.
What is considered a short-term rental?
A fee-based lodging arrangement of less than 30 consecutive days, typically booked through Airbnb, VRBO, or similar platforms.
Kent FAQ
Do I need a permit to rent my home short-term in Kent?
Yes. A Kent business license is required and operators must comply with RCW 64.37 including liability insurance and tax registration.
What counts as a short-term rental?
A fee-based lodging arrangement of less than 30 consecutive days, typically via Airbnb, VRBO, or similar platforms.
Compare other topics
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