Federal Way vs Kirkland
How do occupancy limits rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Kirkland, WA?
Federal Way and Kirkland have similar restriction levels.
Federal Way, WA
King County
Federal Way STRs follow building code occupancy standards, generally two persons per bedroom plus two additional. RCW 64.37 requires operators to post maximum occupancy inside the unit.
View full Federal Way rules →Kirkland, WA
King County
Occupancy in Kirkland short-term rentals is capped by bedroom count and International Residential Code floor-area standards, typically two guests per bedroom plus two additional for the dwelling.
View full Kirkland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Federal Way | Kirkland |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Formula | Two per bedroom plus two | - |
| Post Occupancy | Required by RCW 64.37 | - |
| Bedroom Minimum | 70 sq ft with egress | - |
| Code Basis | WA State Building Code | - |
| Fine Minimum | 250 dollars | - |
| Standard formula | - | 2 per bedroom plus 2 |
| Typical cap | - | 10 people maximum |
| Bedroom definition | - | IRC egress and size standards |
| Posting required | - | Yes in unit and listing |
| Party ban | - | No events above cap |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Federal Way FAQ
How many guests can my Federal Way STR host?
Generally two guests per bedroom plus two additional, subject to state building code bedroom definitions and fire egress.
Do I have to post occupancy?
Yes. RCW 64.37 requires every short-term rental operator to post the maximum occupancy inside the unit.
Kirkland FAQ
Can I host a party at my Kirkland rental?
Daytime gatherings within the posted occupancy are allowed, but events exceeding the approved occupancy or generating excess noise and parking are prohibited and can result in fines.
Does my finished basement count as a bedroom?
Only if it has been permitted as habitable space with code-compliant egress windows, ceiling height, and smoke alarms; otherwise guests may sleep there as living space but it does not add to bedroom count.
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