Occupancy Limits: Kirkland vs Seattle

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.

How many short-term rentals can one Seattle operator run?

Most operators are limited to two dwelling units total: a primary residence (where they live more than six months a year) and one additional unit within city limits, with limited Downtown Urban Core legacy exceptions.

Does SMC 6.600 set a maximum number of guests per bedroom?

No. SMC 6.600 does not include a numeric guest-per-bedroom cap. Occupancy is governed by the underlying Building, Fire, and Housing/Maintenance codes for the structure.

Can I rent out a basement room without a separate STR license?

Yes. A rented bedroom inside your primary or secondary unit that does not have its own kitchen and bathroom is covered by your existing STR operator license and does not count as a separate unit.

What happens if I exceed the two-unit limit?

FAS can deny or revoke the operator license, and you can face $500 first-violation and $1,000 subsequent-violation penalties under SMC 6.600, plus SDCI land use enforcement under SMC 23.42.060.