Permit Requirements: Kirkland vs Seattle
How do permit requirements rules compare between Kirkland, WA and Seattle, WA?
Kirkland has fewer restrictions than Seattle.
Kirkland, WA
King County
Kirkland requires all short-term rental operators to obtain a City business license, register with the State of Washington, and comply with KZC short-term rental zoning standards under Ordinance O-4755.
View full Kirkland 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 | Kirkland | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Rental threshold | Fewer than 30 nights | - |
| State law | RCW 64.37 | - |
| Emergency contact | 24/7 availability required | - |
| License display | Must appear in listings | - |
| Recordkeeping | 1 year minimum | - |
| 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.
Kirkland FAQ
Can I operate an Airbnb in a Kirkland rental house?
Non-owner-occupied short-term rentals face additional zoning restrictions and may not be allowed in all residential zones; verify with Planning before purchasing or signing a lease for STR use.
Do I need to collect lodging taxes?
Yes, operators must collect Washington Retail Sales Tax, State Lodging Tax, and King County Transient Lodging Tax and remit through the Department of Revenue.
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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