Rent control rules in Yakima, WA — also known as rent stabilization or rent cap ordinances — limit annual rent increases and protect tenants from displacement.
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.
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.
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.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Yakima, WA
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