Kent vs Kirkland
How do occupancy limits rules compare between Kent, WA and Kirkland, WA?
Kent and Kirkland have similar restriction levels.
Kent, WA
King County
Kent short-term rentals follow building code occupancy limits, generally two persons per bedroom plus two additional. RCW 64.37 requires operators to post maximum occupancy.
View full Kent 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 | Kent | Kirkland |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Formula | Two per bedroom plus two | - |
| Posting Required | Per RCW 64.37 | - |
| Bedroom Minimum | 70 square feet, egress | - |
| Code Reference | WA State Building Code | - |
| Fine Minimum | $250 | - |
| 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.
Kent FAQ
How many guests can my Kent STR host?
Generally two per bedroom plus two additional, subject to building code bedroom definitions and fire egress requirements.
Must I post occupancy limits?
Yes. RCW 64.37 requires operators to post maximum occupancy within 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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