Short-term rental permit rules in Tacoma, WA — also called Airbnb permits, vacation rental licenses, or STR registration — list the application steps, fees, and operating requirements for hosting.
Tacoma requires short-term rental operators to obtain a city business license and comply with zoning regulations. STRs must meet fire, building, and health codes. The city has developed regulations as the STR market has grown in the Puget Sound region.
Short-term rental operators in Tacoma must register with the city and obtain a business license. Properties must meet safety standards including smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers. Operators must collect and remit Washington State sales tax and Tacoma's lodging tax. A local contact must be available during guest stays.
Operating without required licenses results in fines and cease-and-desist orders. Tax non-compliance carries state and local penalties.
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma allows residential lawn ornaments and yard art without permits provided they do not exceed the 15-foot accessory-structure height limit in TMC 13.06 a...
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma does not regulate residential inflatable holiday decorations by size or type. The Noise Code (TMC 8.122) applies to continuously running blower motors...
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma has no ordinance restricting when residents may put up or take down holiday lights. The general Noise Ordinance at TMC 8.122 applies to any amplified ...
Tacoma, WA
Built-in outdoor kitchens in Tacoma require building permits from Planning and Development Services (PDS) when they include new electrical, plumbing, gas pip...
Tacoma, WA
Backyard wood and pellet smokers in Tacoma single-family yards are permitted but subject to Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA) Regulation I, Section 9.11, ...
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma adopts the International Fire Code through TMC Title 3 (Fire Prevention) as Tacoma Fire Code. IFC Section 308.1.4 prohibits open-flame cooking devices...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in this county.
See how other cities in this county handle permit requirements.
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