Whatcom County and Bellingham cap STR occupancy through their registration and permit standards, generally tied to bedrooms. Listings must state the maximum, and the host is responsible for guest compliance.
Both jurisdictions limit how many guests an STR can host to curb overcrowding and party-house impacts. Whatcom County's vacation rental performance standards address occupancy alongside parking and safety, and Bellingham sets occupancy through its STR permit. A common benchmark is two guests per bedroom plus two, though the permitted number is fixed per property. Sleeping in vehicles, tents, or garages is neither counted nor allowed. Listings should state the maximum occupancy accurately, and the host, not the guest, is accountable for any exceedance.
Overcrowding draws a warning, then fines, and repeated violations can lead to suspension or revocation of a Bellingham permit or county registration.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Whatcom County, WA
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Whatcom County, WA
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Whatcom County, WA
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Whatcom County, WA
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Whatcom County, WA
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Whatcom County, WA
Washington no longer leaves rent to the open market. Since HB 1217 took effect in May 2025, annual residential rent increases are capped statewide. For 2026 ...
See how Whatcom County's occupancy limits rules stack up against other locations.
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