Permit Requirements: Redmond vs Seattle
How do permit requirements rules compare between Redmond, WA and Seattle, WA?
Redmond and Seattle have similar restriction levels.
Redmond, WA
King County
Redmond STR hosts (rentals 30 days or less) need a city business license, Washington DOR lodging tax registration, and must comply with RCW 64.37 insurance and safety rules.
View full Redmond 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 | Redmond | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Stay Threshold | 30 days or less | - |
| State Law | RCW 64.37 | - |
| Insurance | $1M minimum liability | - |
| City License | Required | - |
| Response Time | 1 hour local contact | - |
| 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.
Redmond FAQ
Do I need a permit for Airbnb in Redmond?
Yes. Hosts must obtain a Redmond business license, register with the Washington Department of Revenue for lodging tax, and carry at least $1 million in liability insurance under RCW 64.37.
What counts as a short-term rental in Redmond?
Any rental of a dwelling unit for 30 days or fewer. This includes Airbnb, Vrbo, and private rentals arranged outside 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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