Washington RCW 35.21.830 has historically preempted local rent control. In 2024, HB 2114 and related legislation adjusted the landscape. Spokane has no rent-control ordinance and relies on RCW 59.18 landlord-tenant rules. Rent increase notice is 60 days under state law.
Washington Revised Code 35.21.830 long prohibited cities from enacting rent control. In 2024, the legislature considered and partially repealed elements of that preemption, but comprehensive statewide rent-stabilization legislation (such as HB 2114) did not pass in 2024 as originally proposed, and further efforts continued in 2025. As of early 2026 Spokane has no local rent-control ordinance. Landlords must provide at least 60 days written notice for any rent increase on month-to-month tenancies under RCW 59.18.140 (expanded from the former 30 days via recent legislation). Just-cause eviction protections apply statewide under RCW 59.18.650. Spokane does have tenant-protection ordinances addressing source-of-income discrimination and relocation assistance for certain displacements (SMC 10.60 and chapter updates).
Failure to give 60-day rent-increase notice voids the increase. Illegal eviction: tenant remedies under RCW 59.18 including treble damages.
See how Spokane's rent control rules stack up against other locations.
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