Permit Requirements: Federal Way vs Seattle
How do permit requirements rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Seattle, WA?
Federal Way and Seattle 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 →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 | Federal Way | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | RCW 64.37 | - |
| Minimum Insurance | 1 million dollars | - |
| City Registration | Federal Way endorsement required | - |
| Tax Registration | WA DOR required | - |
| Rental Duration | Under 30 days | - |
| 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.
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.
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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