Spokane does not operate a citywide rental registration program, but all landlords must hold a Washington business license and a Spokane business registration. Rental units must comply with the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act and local housing code.
Unlike Seattle and Tacoma, Spokane has not adopted a mandatory rental inspection or registration ordinance. However, anyone earning rental income in Spokane must register with the Washington Department of Revenue for Business and Occupation (B&O) tax purposes and obtain a City of Spokane business license under SMC Chapter 8.01. Rental properties remain subject to the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18) which requires habitable conditions, working smoke alarms, hot and cold running water, and proper weatherproofing. Spokane Municipal Code Title 10 and the International Property Maintenance Code adopted under SMC 17F.040 define substandard housing violations enforceable by Code Enforcement. Tenants who discover habitability problems may file complaints with the city, which can trigger inspection and abatement orders. The Spokane Housing Authority and local nonprofit SNAP provide mediation resources. Landlords offering short-term rentals face separate licensing under the STR ordinance.
Operating without a business license is subject to $250 citation plus back taxes. Habitability violations can trigger condemnation and relocation assistance obligations.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Spokane, WA
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Spokane, WA
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Spokane, WA
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Spokane, WA
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Spokane, WA
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Spokane, WA
Spokane adopts the International Fire Code under SMC Chapter 17F.080. IFC 308.1.4 prohibits open-flame cooking on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of ...
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