Tacoma, WA Rental Property Rules: Rental Registration (2026)
Key Facts
- Trigger
- 24+ violation points, or derelict/fire code
- License fee (1st notice)
- $500
- License term
- 3 years
- Appeal available
- yes, to Building Official
Summary
Tacoma does not license rentals upfront; a provisional rental property license kicks in only after code violations exceed 24 points, hit derelict status, or breach fire code.
a provisional rental property license will be required for a rental property when a condition exists that endangers or impairs the health or safety of a tenant and when:
1. Under TMC Chapter 2.01.050 Minimum Buildings and Structures Code violations exceed 24 points, or 2. Under TMC Chapter 2.01.050 Minimum Buildings and Structures Code, it is determined to be a Derelict Building or Structure, or 3. Violations of the International Fire Code, TMC Chapter 3.02, exist.
B. Notice of a violation stating that a provisional rental license is required shall be given and mailed pursuant to TMC § 6B.10.120, Mailing of Notices.
C. Appeal.
1. A person who receives notice that a provisional rental property license is required due to violations of TMC Chapter 2.01, the Minimum Buildings and Structures Code, may request an administrative review by the Building Official as provided in Section 2.01.050D.5.b.
2. A person who receives notice that a provisional rental property license is required due to violations of TMC Chapter 3.02 only may appeal such a determination as provided in General License Provisions Section 6B.10.140, Denial or revocation – Appeal. (Ord. 27967 Ex. A, 2011-02-01; Ord. 28125 Ex. A, 2013-01-15; Ord. 28537 Ex. A, 2018-11-06)
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4946110; v22 updated 2026-07-28).
Full Breakdown
Under TMC § 6B.165.050, Tacoma requires a provisional rental property license only once a condition endangering tenant health or safety is found: Minimum Buildings and Structures Code violations exceeding 24 points, a Derelict Building determination, or Fire Code violations. Owners get written notice and can appeal to the Building Official or through the general license appeal process. Owner-occupied homes rented under 12 months, and properties recently inspected clean, are exempt under § 6B.165.060.
Violations & Fines
Failing to obtain the provisional license, complete required safety training, or submit a certificate of inspection within the deadlines set after a notice of violation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all Tacoma landlords have to register their rentals?
What triggers a provisional rental license in Tacoma?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Tacoma
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Rental Registration in Nearby Cities
How other cities in this county handle rental registration.