Yakima County, WA Rental Property Rules: Rent Control (2026)
Rent control rules in Yakima County, WA, also known as rent stabilization or rent cap ordinances, limit annual rent increases and protect tenants from displacement.
Key Facts
- Statewide cap
- HB 1217 (2025)
- 2026 maximum
- 9.683 percent
- First 12 months
- No increase
- Notice
- 90 days
- Statute
- RCW 59.18.700
Summary
Washington's 2025 rent stabilization law now caps annual residential rent increases in Yakima County. After the first year, a landlord may raise rent by no more than 7 percent plus CPI, or 10 percent, whichever is less: a 9.683 percent ceiling for 2026.
Except as authorized by an exemption under RCW 59.18.710, a landlord may not increase the rent for any type of tenancy, regardless of whether the tenancy is month-to-month or for a term greater or lesser than month-to-month: (i) During the first 12 months after the tenancy begins; and (ii) During any 12-month period of the tenancy, in an amount greater than seven percent plus the consumer price index, or 10 percent, whichever is less.
Full Breakdown
This overturns the old "no rent control in Washington" rule. Governor Ferguson signed HB 1217 on May 7, 2025, effective immediately, and it applies to Yakima County residential tenancies under RCW 59.18. During the first 12 months there is no increase. After that, rent is capped at the lesser of 7 percent plus CPI or 10 percent. Commerce publishes the figure yearly: 9.683 percent for January through December 2026. Required notice grew to 90 days. Manufactured and mobile homes are capped at 5 percent under RCW 59.20. New construction is exempt for 12 years. Local rent control stays barred by RCW 35.21.830; this cap is state-set, not local.
Violations & Fines
Increases above the cap are void, and the tenant does not owe the overage. The Attorney General enforces under the Consumer Protection Act, with penalties and tenant damages. Improper notice invalidates the increase.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can my rent go up?
Isn't rent control banned in Washington?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Yakima County
Compare Yakima County to another location·View the Washington rental property rules overview
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