Lakewood, WA Short-Term Rentals: Occupancy Limits (2026)

Under LMC 18A.40.090, a short-term rental is defined as the rental of a dwelling unit, or part of one, for fewer than 30 consecutive calendar days, and STRs are an allowed use in most residential land use zones. The ordinance does not assign a numeric guests-per-bedroom cap; instead, maximum occupancy is regulated consistent with LMC Title 15 (Buildings and Construction), which adopts the International Residential Code, International Building Code, and International Fire Code amendments in LMC 15.05. Occupant load is therefore determined by habitable room area, sleeping room minimums, and Fire Code egress requirements for the specific structure. As a condition of licensing, the STR must be inspected by the City and the Tacoma-Pierce County Fire District (Fire District 3 or West Pierce Fire & Rescue, depending on location) to confirm compliance, and any deficiencies must be corrected before the unit can be rented. STRs are categorically prohibited in Commercial zones C1, C2, and C3; in Industrial zones IBP, I1, and I2; in Public and Semi-Public Institutional zones; and in Open Space Recreation zones OSR1 and OSR2. STR permits are non-transferable to another person or entity and are not valid at any address other than the one on the permit, so an operator cannot run a single license across multiple homes. The approved STR permit number and the City of Lakewood business license must be posted on every listing or advertisement, including online platforms, and the operator must provide a written notification letter and 24/7 local contact information to neighbors. STR operations are reviewed as a Type II administrative decision under the Planning and Public Works Department process.