Registration Rules: Kent vs Renton
How do registration rules rules compare between Kent, WA and Renton, WA?
Kent has fewer restrictions than Renton.
Kent, WA
King County
Kent STR operators must register with the City of Kent for a business license and the Washington Department of Revenue for tax purposes, plus RCW 64.37 contact info registration.
View full Kent rules →Renton, WA
King County
Renton STR operators register at filelocal-wa.gov (150 dollar City Business License) and dor.wa.gov (state UBI). Both renew annually; listings should display the license number.
View full Renton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Kent | Renton |
|---|---|---|
| State License | WA DOR required | - |
| Kent License | City business license required | - |
| Renewal | Annual | Annual |
| Platform Display | License number required | - |
| Code Reference | RCW 64.37 | - |
| City Portal | - | filelocal-wa.gov (150 dollars/year) |
| State Portal | - | dor.wa.gov for UBI |
| Listing Display | - | Not mandatory but recommended |
| Code | - | RMC 4-4-055 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Kent FAQ
How do I register my Kent Airbnb?
Obtain a Washington state business license from DOR and a Kent city business license. Both are renewed annually.
Do I need to display my license?
Yes. Platforms typically require a valid license number to be listed, and local contact info must be posted at the rental per RCW 64.37.
Renton FAQ
Do I need a state UBI to run a Renton STR?
Yes. Washington requires a UBI from dor.wa.gov for any business collecting sales or lodging taxes, and it is needed to file B&O returns with the city.
How often do I renew my Renton STR license?
Annually, through filelocal-wa.gov. Failing to renew is a code violation under RMC 1-10 and can stop you from operating.
Compare other topics
See how Kent and Renton compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool