Spokane, WA

Spokane requires working smoke alarms in all residential dwellings per IRC Section R314 and IFC Section 907 adopted under SMC Title 17F. Rentals require hardwired interconnected alarms on each level and in each bedroom.

Spokane requires property owners in the wildland-urban interface on the eastside hills to maintain defensible space. SMC 10.08 addresses fire hazard abatement, and SRCAA coordinates regional wildfire fuel reduction.

Backyard recreational fires in Spokane must use approved containments, burn only clean firewood, stay 25 feet from structures, and comply with SRCAA burn ban status. Fires over 3 feet require a permit.

Eastern Spokane including the eastside hills, South Hill bluff, and Dishman Hills vicinity are designated wildland-urban interface (WUI) zones. Enhanced building codes, defensible space, and Class A roofing required.

Spokane adopts the International Fire Code through SMC Chapter 17F.040 with Spokane Fire Department amendments, capping unprotected residential propane storage and requiring permits for larger tanks under WAC 296-24-475.

All consumer fireworks are banned within Spokane city limits year-round under SMC 10.04. Only licensed public displays are permitted. Spokane Fire Department conducts active enforcement around July 4th.

Outdoor burning of yard debris is banned year-round within Spokane city limits under SRCAA Regulation I. Only recreational fires with clean firewood are allowed, subject to burn ban status.

Spokane allows recreational fires in approved fire pits under 3 feet in diameter, but all outdoor burning is subject to Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency (SRCAA) burn ban status. Only clean, seasoned firewood allowed.

Rainwater harvesting from rooftops is legal and encouraged in Washington under a 2009 Ecology policy. Spokane residents may collect rooftop runoff without a water right for non-potable use.

Artificial turf is allowed in Spokane for residential landscaping with no specific prohibition. Stormwater requirements apply for large installations. HOAs may have additional rules.

Spokane property owners must control noxious weeds listed by the Spokane County Noxious Weed Control Board under RCW 17.10. Class A and B designate weeds require eradication. Complaints enforced by county and city code.

Spokane encourages native plant landscaping through SpokaneScape rebates and technical assistance. Native-plant yards are exempt from typical lawn appearance expectations if registered.

Property owners may trim their own trees in Spokane without a permit. Trimming into public right-of-way requires coordination with Spokane Urban Forestry. Overhanging branches into neighboring property may be trimmed to the property line.

Removing trees on private residential property in Spokane generally does not require a permit, but heritage trees, street trees, and trees in critical areas are protected. Permits required in landslide, wetland, and riparian zones.

Spokane uses the Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer. Water conservation program encourages odd-even watering, avoiding midday irrigation, and efficient systems. Mandatory restrictions activated during drought.

Spokane Municipal Code 10.08.020 prohibits grass and weeds exceeding 10 inches on improved properties. Code enforcement issues abatement notices and can mow at owner expense plus administrative fees.

Washington requires jurisdictions over 25,000 to provide organics collection and bans certain organic waste disposal under RCW 70A.205.545.

Aircraft noise from Spokane International Airport (GEG) and Felts Field is preempted by federal FAA rules. Spokane International has a voluntary noise abatement program with preferred runway use and departure procedures.

Spokane prohibits amplified sound that disturbs neighbors under SMC 10.08A, the public disturbance noise provisions. Outdoor events over 100 attendees typically require a special event permit with sound limits.

Commercial noise in Spokane must comply with WAC 173-60 EDNA limits based on the receiving property class. Commercial-to-residential sound cannot exceed 60 dBA day or 50 dBA night at the residential property line.

Spokane enforces vehicle noise under SMC 16A.61 (traffic) and state RCW 46.37.390 muffler requirements. Modified exhausts, engine braking, and loud stereos in vehicles are common citations.

Spokane has no gas leaf blower ban. Operation is limited to general noise hours (typically 7 AM to 10 PM) under SMC 10.08. Unlike some Western WA cities, Spokane has not adopted equipment-specific restrictions.

Spokane Municipal Code Chapter 10.08 sets quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM in residential zones. RCW 70A.20 and WAC 173-60 set background state limits of 55 dBA day / 45 dBA night for residential receiving properties.

Spokane permits construction noise generally 7 AM to 10 PM on weekdays and weekends in residential zones. WAC 173-60 exempts temporary construction activity from EDNA limits during daytime hours.

Spokane treats chronic barking as a public nuisance under SMC 10.08 and SMC 10.04 (animal control). SpokAnimal, under contract with the city, handles enforcement with warnings escalating to fines.

Spokane allows overnight on-street parking subject to the 24-hour rule in SMC 16A.61.424. Snow-emergency routes and posted no-parking zones restrict overnight parking seasonally. Residential permit zones require valid permits overnight.

Spokane supports EV charging under WA state building code EV-ready requirements. Public chargers operate downtown and at City facilities. RCW 35.63.126 requires cities to allow Level 1 and 2 EV charging in most zones as a permitted use.

Spokane impounds abandoned or junked vehicles under SMC 16A.64 and RCW 46.55. Vehicles left over 24 hours on the street or unregistered/inoperable on private property are subject to removal. Property owners bear removal costs.

Spokane restricts commercial vehicle parking on residential streets under SMC 16A.61. Vehicles over 10,000 lbs GVWR generally cannot park overnight in residential zones. Semi-trucks and trailers prohibited on residential streets except for active loading.

Spokane regulates on-street parking under SMC Title 16A. Downtown has metered zones, and residential permit zones exist near Gonzaga and downtown. Vehicles cannot remain parked in one location longer than 24 hours on public streets.

Spokane allows RV and boat parking on residential property subject to SMC 17C setback rules. Street storage is limited by the 24-hour rule. RVs cannot be occupied as dwellings on residential property outside licensed RV parks.

Spokane requires driveway approach permits under SMC 12.02 for any new or modified driveway connecting private property to a public street. Driveway widths and curb-cut standards follow the Spokane Standard Plans.

Spokane requires a building permit for all in-ground pools and for above-ground pools over 24 inches deep per SMC 17F and the WA State Building Code. Electrical and plumbing sub-permits are also required. Plan review covers setbacks, barriers, and equipment placement.

Hot tubs and spas in Spokane require an electrical permit from WA L and I and must comply with NEC Article 680. Hot tubs with ASTM F1346 locking safety covers are exempt from the 48-inch barrier requirement. Setback from property lines follows zoning standards.

Spokane residential pools must comply with Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act anti-entrapment standards, IRC Appendix G barriers, and WA state electrical bonding. Public and semi-public pools (apartments, HOAs) are regulated by WA DOH under WAC 246-260.

Spokane requires a 48-inch minimum barrier around all residential pools per the WA State Building Code / IRC Appendix G. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching with latches at least 54 inches above grade. Openings cannot allow passage of a 4-inch sphere.

Above-ground pools in Spokane holding more than 24 inches of water require a building permit and must meet IRC Appendix G barrier requirements. The pool wall itself can serve as the barrier if at least 48 inches high and any ladder is removable or secured.

Spokane allows family home child care as a permitted home occupation in residential zones per SMC 17C.315. State licensing through WA DCYF is required for caring for more than one unrelated family's children. Up to 12 children allowed in licensed family home care.

Washington Cottage Food Operations are legal statewide under RCW 69.22 and WAC 16-149. Spokane residents can sell approved low-risk homemade foods up to $25,000 gross annual revenue with a WSDA Cottage Food Permit.

Spokane allows home occupations in all residential zones under SMC 17C.315 without a conditional use permit provided standards are met. A city business license from Taxes and Licenses Division is required. No employees outside the household, limited customer visits, and no exterior changes.

Home occupation signs in Spokane are strictly limited under SMC 17C.315 and 17C.240. One non-illuminated sign maximum, not exceeding 2 square feet, attached flush to the dwelling.

Spokane home occupations must not generate traffic or parking demand exceeding typical residential levels. Client visits should be by appointment, limited in number, and not disrupt the neighborhood.

Spokane allows home occupations in all residential zones under SMC 17C.315. Must be secondary to residential use, no more than 25% of dwelling floor area, no more than one non-resident employee on site.

Spokane STR operators must obtain a city business registration via Taxes and Licenses Division and a WA state UBI through the Business Licensing Service. Registration is annual with a flat fee around 100 dollars. Operators must designate a 24/7 local contact and post contact info in the rental.

Spokane does not set a specific STR occupancy cap but the WA State Building Code and SMC 17A limit residential occupancy to 2 persons per bedroom plus 2 additional under general standards. Fire code occupant load limits apply. Operators should cap bookings to avoid overcrowding.

Spokane does not mandate a specific STR liability insurance amount but WA state law and standard practice strongly recommend 1 million dollars general liability. Airbnb Host Liability Insurance and AirCover provide up to 1 million per booking. Notify your homeowner insurer of STR use.

Spokane STRs must comply with SMC 10.08D noise standards and general quiet hours of 10 PM to 7 AM. Operators are responsible for guest behavior. Repeated nuisance complaints can lead to business registration revocation. WAC 173-60 residential noise limits of 55 dBA day and 45 dBA night apply.

Spokane does not cap the number of nights an STR may operate per year. Operators can rent year-round provided they maintain business registration and comply with SMC 17C.311. Some neighboring WA jurisdictions cap non-owner-occupied STRs at 90 or 180 nights annually.

Spokane treats hosted STRs (operator present during stay) more permissively than unhosted whole-home rentals, with hosted operations allowed in more zones under SMC Ch. 17C.355.

Spokane allows short-term rentals at primary residences with fewer restrictions, while non-owner-occupied STRs face stricter zoning standards under SMC Ch. 17C.355 and state RCW 35.21.770 partial preemption.

Spokane permits long-term boarders and home-share arrangements (stays of 30+ days) under standard residential zoning rather than STR registration, since extended stays fall outside transient-occupancy definitions.

Spokane requires STR listings to display the city registration number and platforms must collect lodging taxes per state law, though full platform liability for unregistered listings remains limited compared to coastal-city models.

Spokane can revoke or deny renewal of STR registrations for repeat code violations under SMC Ch. 17C.355, with escalating penalties for noise, occupancy, or parking infractions documented over time.

Spokane STRs must provide off-street parking per SMC 17C.230 at a ratio typically matching residential requirements (1 to 2 spaces per dwelling). Guests may not block alleys, fire lanes, or neighbors' driveways. Street parking is subject to standard time limits and permit zones.

Spokane STRs are subject to WA state sales tax (6.5 percent), Spokane local sales tax (2.4 percent), WA state lodging tax, and Spokane's 2 percent transient rental tax. Total occupancy tax burden is typically around 12 to 13 percent. Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo collect and remit most taxes automatically.

Spokane requires short-term rental operators to obtain a city business registration and comply with SMC 17C.311 residential STR standards. Owner-occupancy is not required citywide but STRs must meet life-safety and zoning rules. Registration with WA DOR for lodging tax remittance is also required.

Spokane permits most standard fence materials: wood, vinyl, chain-link, wrought iron, and masonry. Barbed wire is prohibited in residential zones and razor wire is banned citywide except for secure facilities.

Swimming pools in Spokane require a barrier at least 48 inches tall per the WA State Building Code and IRC Appendix G. Self-closing, self-latching gates opening outward from the pool are required.

Spokane enforces a 20-foot vision clearance triangle at street intersections under SMC 17C.110.240. Fences, hedges, and vegetation over 3 feet tall are prohibited in this triangle.

Spokane allows fences up to 7 feet in rear and side yards and 3 feet in front yards under SMC 17C.110.230. Corner lot visibility triangles require lower heights.

Residential fences up to 7 feet in Spokane generally do not require a building permit under SMC 17F.040. Fences over 7 feet, retaining walls over 4 feet, and any fence in a critical area require permits.

Washington has no shared fence cost statute. Spokane property owners are not legally required to split fence costs with neighbors. RCW 7.28 covers boundary disputes; most neighbor issues are civil matters.

Tiny homes on foundations can qualify as ADUs under HB 1337 in Spokane. Tiny homes on wheels (THOW) are regulated as RVs and generally cannot be permanent dwellings outside designated parks. Minimum 70 sq ft per WA code.

Carports in Spokane require building permits and must meet setbacks, height, and lot coverage limits under SMC Title 17C. Front-yard carports generally prohibited in residential zones. Structural attachment rules apply.

Spokane processes ADU permits ministerially under Spokane Municipal Code Chapter 17C.300, updated in 2024-2025 to comply with Washington HB 1337 (RCW 36.70A.680 et seq.). Two ADUs are allowed per lot in RA, R1, R2, RMF, and RHD zones. Applications go through the Permit Center at City Hall.

Under Washington HB 1337 (RCW 36.70A.696) and SMC 17C.300.110, Spokane does NOT require owner-occupancy for standard ADUs. A narrow exception applies when both an ADU and a short-term rental exist on the same lot - in that case one unit must be owner-occupied six months per year, effective July 11, 2025.

Under Washington HB 1337 (RCW 36.70A.681), Spokane cannot charge impact fees on ADUs under 1,000 sq ft and is capped at 50% of single-family rates for larger ADUs. Spokane has not adopted general school or park impact fees - only its Transportation Impact Fee under SMC 17D.075 applies, and even that is reduced or waived for ADUs.

Spokane allows long-term rental (30+ days) of any ADU without restriction. Short-term rental of an ADU is allowed under SMC 17C.316.040 but only if the operator obtains an STR permit and city business license. Combined ADU+STR use on the same lot triggers a 6-month owner-occupancy rule under SMC 17C.300.110 (effective July 11, 2025).

Garage conversions to living space are allowed in Spokane under HB 1337 ADU rules. Require building permits for framing, electrical, plumbing, insulation, egress windows, and WA State Energy Code compliance.

Sheds under 200 sq ft in Spokane are exempt from building permits per WA State Building Code and IRC R105.2. Setbacks still apply: typically 5 feet from side and rear property lines in residential zones.

Under Washington HB 1110 (middle housing) and HB 1337 (ADU), Spokane must allow at least two ADUs per single-family lot. No owner-occupancy requirement, no ADU parking requirement within half-mile of transit. ADUs up to 1,000 sq ft permitted.

Spokane regulates outdoor lighting under SMC 17C.110 with full-cutoff fixture requirements for new commercial development. No formal IDA Dark Sky designation, but light spillover onto adjoining residential property is restricted.

Spokane treats light trespass as a civil nuisance under SMC 10.08. Measurable light spill exceeding 0.5 foot-candles at the receiving property line is generally actionable. Shielded fixtures and appropriate angles are the primary remedy.

Spokane limits residential lot coverage under SMC 17C.110. RSF zones typically allow 45-50% building coverage. HB 1110 middle-housing rules may adjust coverage to accommodate duplex/fourplex development on standard lots.

Spokane caps residential structure height at 35 feet in RSF zones under SMC 17C.110. Accessory structures limited to 20-24 ft. Downtown and Center zones allow taller buildings subject to shadow and design review.

Spokane setbacks are set in SMC 17C.110. Single-family residential zones typically require 15-ft front, 5-ft side, and 15-ft rear setbacks. HB 1110 middle-housing reform (2023) mandates flexibility for duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes on single-family lots.

Spokane property owners must clear sidewalks abutting their property within 24 hours after snow stops falling, per SMC 12.02.0806. Failure to clear results in city abatement billed to the owner.

Spokane requires garbage and recycling carts to be stored out of public view between collection days. Carts visible from the street or alley outside the collection window violate SMC 17C.110.230 property appearance standards.

Spokane actively enforces property blight under the Chronic Nuisance Property ordinance SMC 10.08A and the International Property Maintenance Code. Junk, overgrown weeds, abandoned vehicles, and deteriorating structures trigger progressive enforcement.

Spokane permits residential garage sales without a permit, limited to 3 sales per calendar year per residence lasting no more than 3 consecutive days each, under SMC 10.08 general nuisance standards.

Spokane requires owners of vacant lots to maintain them free of weeds over 10 inches, junk, and debris under SMC 10.08.030. Vacant buildings must be secured and registered per the Vacant Building Monitoring Program.

Spokane food trucks need a City mobile vendor license under SMC 10.36, a Spokane Regional Health District permit, and WA Department of Revenue registration. Commissary kitchens required. Fire-suppression inspection by Spokane Fire for cooking units.

Spokane food trucks operate on private property with owner permission or in designated public spaces under SMC 10.36. Downtown and Riverfront Park events require event-specific permits. Distance-from-restaurant rules are not generally imposed.

Spokane HOAs operate under the WA Homeowners Association Act RCW 64.38 which governs board procedures, meetings, and member rights. Condominiums fall under RCW 64.32 (old act) or RCW 64.34 (new act). WUCIOA RCW 64.90 applies to HOAs formed after July 1, 2018.

Spokane HOA architectural review committees (ARCs) operate under CC and Rs and must follow reasonable procedures per RCW 64.38. WUCIOA associations (RCW 64.90) have enhanced due-process requirements. Owners have the right to written decisions and appeal. State law preempts bans on solar panels and clotheslines.

Spokane HOA assessments are governed by RCW 64.38 and RCW 64.90. Boards can levy regular and special assessments per CC and Rs. WUCIOA requires annual budgets and reserve studies. Unpaid assessments become liens under RCW 64.38.150 or RCW 64.90.485 and can trigger foreclosure.

Spokane HOAs enforce CC and Rs through violation notices, fines, and civil action per governing documents and RCW 64.38 / 64.90. WUCIOA RCW 64.90.510 requires notice and a hearing opportunity before imposing fines. Selective enforcement is a recognized defense.

Washington does not have a state HOA regulator. Spokane HOA disputes are resolved through internal procedures, mediation, or civil court (typically Spokane County Superior Court). RCW 64.38 and RCW 64.90 provide member rights to records and enforcement of governing documents.

Spokane permits political signs on private property with owner consent, with no size or duration limits for residential displays. Placement in the public right-of-way is prohibited and signs are subject to Reed v. Gilbert content-neutrality.

Spokane allows residential holiday decorations and lights without permits. Displays must not obstruct sidewalks or create safety hazards. Commercial electrical connections require licensed installation per the Washington Electrical Code.

Spokane allows temporary garage sale signs on private property with owner consent. Signs in the public right-of-way, on utility poles, or on traffic signs are prohibited and subject to removal under SMC 17C.240.

Spokane enforces strict stormwater rules under SMC 17D.060 and the NPDES Phase II MS4 permit. The Spokane-Rathdrum Aquifer (sole-source aquifer) and Spokane River require infiltration-based treatment. New development must manage runoff via the Spokane Regional Stormwater Manual.

Spokane requires erosion and sediment control plans for any land-disturbing activity over 500 sq ft under SMC 17D.060. Construction sites use silt fences, straw wattles, and inlet protection per the Spokane Regional Stormwater Manual. DOE CSWGP covers 1+ acre sites.

Spokane requires grading permits under SMC 17F.070 for earthwork exceeding 50 cubic yards or 500 sq ft of disturbance. Steep slopes (over 30%) trigger SMC 17E.030 critical-area review. Drainage must comply with the Spokane Regional Stormwater Manual.

Spokane's 2021 Sustainability Action Plan sets greenhouse gas reduction goals targeting 95% below 2016 levels by 2050, guiding city operations, building codes, and transportation policy across departments.

Spokane's Comprehensive Plan and Sustainability Action Plan call for tree canopy expansion, green infrastructure, and cooling centers to reduce heat island impacts in downtown and West Central neighborhoods most exposed to summer heat.

Spokane has no broad citywide vehicle idling ban for residents, but state diesel idling rules and school zone policies discourage extended idling near sensitive receptors like schools and hospitals.

Spokane's purchasing rules direct city departments to favor recycled-content paper, ENERGY STAR equipment, and lower-emission vehicles when life-cycle costs are comparable, supporting Climate Action Plan implementation.

Spokane has no cool-roof mandate, but the Sustainability Action Plan and Washington State Energy Code encourage reflective roofing, added insulation, and shade trees to reduce summer heat island effects in dense neighborhoods.

Spokane participates in the National Flood Insurance Program. The Spokane River, Latah Creek (Hangman Creek), and Little Spokane River have mapped FEMA floodplains. SMC 17E.030 (Critical Areas) regulates development in floodways and 100-year floodplains.

Washington's Shoreline Management Act (RCW 90.58) requires Shoreline Substantial Development Permits for most construction within 200 feet of marine and freshwater shorelines statewide.

Spokane Solid Waste Collection provides weekly garbage and every-other-week recycling pickup to residential customers. Carts must be placed curbside by 6 AM on collection day and removed within 24 hours under SMC 13.02.

Spokane residents can dispose of bulky items through the Clean Green and annual Spring Clean-Up programs, or by self-hauling to the Waste-to-Energy Facility. Bulk items placed at the curb outside approved programs are illegal dumping.

Spokane carts must be placed within 3 feet of the curb or alley, with at least 3 feet of clearance between carts and obstacles. Alley service is the default in older neighborhoods; curb service applies elsewhere per SMC 13.02.

Spokane operates a single-stream recycling program with a blue cart collected every other week. Accepted materials include paper, cardboard, metal cans, and plastics #1 and #2. Glass is collected separately at drop-off sites.

Washington RCW 35.21.830 has historically preempted local rent control. In 2024, HB 2114 and related legislation adjusted the landscape. Spokane has no rent-control ordinance and relies on RCW 59.18 landlord-tenant rules. Rent increase notice is 60 days under state law.

Spokane landlords must comply with Washington HB 1236 (2021), which requires just cause to terminate any residential tenancy. Sixteen enumerated reasons include nonpayment, lease violations, owner move-in, and substantial renovation, each with specific notice periods.

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.

Security deposits in Spokane rentals are governed by RCW 59.18.260 to 59.18.285, requiring written rental agreements, move-in checklists, and itemized deposit returns within 30 days of tenancy end.

Under RCW 59.18.650, Spokane landlords ending tenancies for owner move-in, substantial rehabilitation, or rental-market withdrawal must provide tenants with relocation assistance equal to one month's rent.

Because WA RCW 35.21.830 preempts rent control, Spokane landlords may pass through utility costs, common-area fees, and other charges under written lease terms, subject to RCW 59.18 disclosure rules.

WA RCW 59.18.255 prohibits Spokane landlords from refusing to rent to applicants based on source of income, including Section 8 vouchers, Social Security, veterans benefits, and other lawful subsidies.

Spokane Housing Authority administers Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers, and under RCW 59.18.255 landlords cannot refuse a qualified voucher holder solely because the tenant uses HCV subsidy.

WA HB 1236 (2021), codified at RCW 59.18.650, eliminated most no-fault month-to-month terminations statewide, requiring Spokane landlords to cite an enumerated just-cause reason to end any tenancy.

Spokane tenants are protected from landlord harassment, retaliation, and self-help eviction under RCW 59.18.240 (anti-retaliation) and RCW 59.18.290 (against utility shutoffs and lockouts), with damages available for violations.

Washington RCW 64.38.055 prohibits HOAs from unreasonably restricting solar panels. HOAs may regulate placement and appearance but cannot effectively ban rooftop solar or significantly reduce output. This protects Spokane homeowners.

Spokane streamlines residential solar permits under WA SB 5165 (2019) which caps rooftop solar permit fees and requires expedited review. Electrical permit via WA L&I plus a building permit from the City are required.

Spokane has a juvenile curfew under SMC 10.10: minors under 18 may not be in public places between midnight and 6 AM, or between 10 PM and 6 AM for those under 14, with limited exceptions for work, school events, or parental accompaniment.

Spokane parks close at 11 PM and reopen at 5 AM under Park Board rules adopted pursuant to SMC 12.06. Being in a park after hours without a permit is a civil infraction.

Spokane recreational drone users must follow FAA Part 107 and Recreational Flyer rules, avoid Spokane International Airport Class D airspace, and obey SMC 12.06.0103 prohibiting drone operation in city parks without a permit.

Commercial drone operators in Spokane must hold an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, register aircraft, and obtain LAANC airspace authorization for the GEG and SFF Class D zones. Commercial takeoff or landing on city property requires a film or use permit.

Spokane requires door-to-door commercial solicitors to obtain a Peddler/Solicitor License under SMC 8.02. Religious, political, and charitable canvassers are exempt under First Amendment protections but must respect No Soliciting notices.

Spokane homeowners can opt out of door-to-door solicitation by posting a No Soliciting or No Trespassing sign. Commercial solicitors who ignore such signs commit misdemeanor trespass under SMC 10.10.030.

Spokane allows licensed cannabis retailers only in commercial and industrial zones, at least 1,000 feet from schools, playgrounds, child care, libraries, and public parks per RCW 69.50.331 and SMC 17C.190.

Home cultivation of cannabis for adult recreational use is prohibited in Washington State and therefore in Spokane. Only registered medical patients and designated providers may grow up to 6 or 15 plants under RCW 69.51A.

Washington does not authorize recreational cannabis home delivery, so Spokane retailers cannot deliver to residences; only registered medical patients receive limited delivery through licensed cooperatives.

Washington requires a 1,000-foot buffer between licensed cannabis retailers and schools, parks, libraries, and similar sensitive sites, and Spokane SMC Chapter 17C applies that buffer through local zoning.

Recreational adult home cultivation of cannabis remains illegal statewide in Washington, including in Spokane, even though I-502 legalized commercial sales; only registered medical patients may grow limited plants.

Washington's cannabis social-equity program issues a limited number of retailer licenses to applicants from communities disproportionately impacted by the war on drugs, including some Spokane census tracts.

Spokane residential garage sales require no permit. Sales are limited to 3 per household per calendar year, each lasting no more than 3 consecutive days, during daylight hours on the residential property.

Spokane property owners must keep dwellings free of rodents and insects under SMC 10.44 (property maintenance). Pesticide applicators must be licensed by WSDA. Bed bug infestations in rental housing are addressed under RCW 59.18 landlord-tenant rules.

Elevator inspection and maintenance in Spokane is regulated by WA Department of Labor and Industries under RCW 70.87 and WAC 296-96. Annual operating permits and periodic L and I inspections are required. Spokane does not administer its own elevator program.

Spokane follows federal EPA Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule 40 CFR 745 for lead paint in pre-1978 housing. Renovation contractors must be EPA-certified. WA Department of Commerce administers lead programs. Sellers and landlords must disclose known lead hazards.

Spokane requires scaffolding to comply with WA L&I safety standards (WAC 296-874) and the Spokane Building Code. Right-of-way permits needed when scaffolding extends into public sidewalks or streets via Spokane Municipal Code Title 12.

Spokane follows the Washington State Building Code and the International Residential Code as adopted through SMC Chapter 17F, requiring sprinklers in townhomes meeting size or layout triggers and in larger multifamily and commercial buildings.

Spokane construction must meet the Washington State Energy Code under RCW 19.27A and the latest Washington Energy Code adopted through SMC Chapter 17F, with City Climate Action Plan goals encouraging electrification and high-performance building beyond minimum code.

Childcare centers in Spokane must meet the Washington State Building Code Group E or I-4 occupancy rules, Spokane Fire Department life-safety inspections, and DCYF licensing under WAC 110-300 before they can serve children.

Egress doors in Spokane buildings must comply with International Building Code and IFC hardware rules adopted under RCW 19.27, requiring single-action unlatching, panic hardware in assembly and educational uses, and Spokane Fire Department approval for special locking arrangements.

Spokane controls oversized infill homes through SMC Chapter 17C lot coverage, building height, and floor area regulations rather than a dedicated mansionization ordinance, with stricter limits in residential single-family RSF and historic overlay zones.

Spokane Municipal Code provisions restrict sitting, lying, or camping on downtown sidewalks and rights-of-way during business hours, enforced by SPD with referrals to shelter services where available.

Spokane coordinates encampment cleanups through city-county partnerships, providing notice, storage of personal belongings, and outreach by Catholic Charities and partners before clearing public-property camps.

Spokane's homeless response includes shelter and bridge housing through Catholic Charities (CoC lead) and Truth Ministries, with admission, length-of-stay, and behavioral standards governed by the Continuum of Care framework.

Spokane bans throwing used syringes in household trash and supports SRHD's syringe services program, which exchanges used needles for sterile ones to reduce disease transmission and improperly discarded sharps.

Spokane property owners must keep premises free of rodent harborage under SMC Chapter 10 nuisance rules, and SRHD investigates complaints of infestations affecting neighboring properties.

Anyone handling unpackaged food in a Spokane restaurant must hold a valid Washington Food Worker Card, obtained by passing an SRHD-recognized course and exam, valid for two to five years.

Spokane Regional Health District inspects food establishments and publishes results online, but Washington does not require a posted letter-grade placard like California or New York.

Washington RCW 59.18.060 requires Spokane landlords to keep rentals free of infestations including bed bugs, and tenants can use the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act repair process to compel treatment.

Vapor product retailers in Spokane must hold a state vapor-product license from the Liquor and Cannabis Board, follow ingredient and packaging rules, and comply with Tobacco 21 age verification.

Washington raised the minimum legal age to buy tobacco and vapor products to 21 under RCW 70.155.010, and Spokane retailers must verify age for any buyer who appears under 30.

Spokane and Washington have not enacted a comprehensive flavored-tobacco or flavored-vape ban, but federal FDA premarket-authorization rules effectively restrict many flavored cartridge-based vapor products nationwide.

Washington's RCW 70A.500 requires food service businesses in Spokane to provide single-use utensils, straws, lids, and condiment packets only when customers request them, reducing waste from automatic distribution.

Washington's RCW 70A.245 phased out expanded polystyrene foam food containers, coolers, and packing peanuts statewide by 2024, applying in Spokane without a separate local ordinance.

Spokane follows Washington's statewide ban on thin single-use plastic carryout bags under RCW 70A.530, with an eight-cent pass-through charge on paper and reusable bags provided at checkout.

Washington RCW 70A.550 limits single-use food service ware including plastic straws and utensils to upon-request distribution at restaurants and food service businesses.

Spokane Tree Code SMC Chapter 12 requires a permit before removing, topping, or significantly pruning any tree in the public right-of-way or on city property, with replacement requirements for removed mature trees.

Spokane's Urban Forestry program and SpoCanopy partnership target tree planting in low-canopy neighborhoods like East Central, West Central, and Hillyard to address heat exposure disparities and historic underinvestment.

Spokane Urban Forestry approves species, spacing, and placement for trees planted in parking strips between sidewalk and curb, ensuring compatibility with overhead lines, sight triangles, and underground utilities.

Spokane's Comprehensive Plan and SMC Ch. 17C designate transit-oriented zones along STA's City Line bus rapid transit corridor, allowing higher density, mixed use, and reduced parking minimums to support walkable neighborhoods.

Spokane offers density bonuses and reduced parking requirements for qualifying affordable housing projects under SMC Chapters 17C and 17G, implementing state HB 1110 middle-housing reforms and local Comprehensive Plan housing goals.

Spokane Water Department asks residential customers to follow an odd/even address watering schedule from May through September, avoiding watering between 10am and 6pm to reduce evaporation and protect aquifer drawdown rates.

Spokane Water Department asks customers to report visible leaks in mains, hydrants, or service lines promptly, and offers a one-time leak adjustment credit on bills when private leaks are repaired and documented.

Spokane's SpokaneScape program offers rebates and design help for residents replacing thirsty lawns with drought-tolerant landscaping, supporting aquifer protection and lowering peak summer irrigation demand.

Spokane permits shared e-scooter operators like Bird and Lime under a city pilot program with rules on parking, riding zones, and speed caps to keep sidewalks clear and protect pedestrians downtown.

Spokane's bike lane network includes painted, buffered, and protected lanes on streets like Riverside, Howard, and Sprague, governed by SMC Title 16 traffic code and state RCW 46.61 bicycle operating rules.

Spokane pawnbrokers operate under SMC Chapter 13 and Washington RCW 19.60. Operators must hold a city license, fingerprint employees, and report all transactions daily to Spokane Police via electronic property reporting.

Spokane adult cabarets and bookstores require special business licenses, mandatory buffer zones from schools, churches, and residential zones, and four-foot performer-patron separation under longstanding SMC adult business regulations.

Massage businesses in Spokane need a city business license plus state-issued individual practitioner credentials from the Washington Department of Health under RCW 18.108. Spas combining massage with other services need both licenses.

Spokane tobacco and vape retailers operate under Washington state licensing through the Department of Revenue. Sales to anyone under 21 are prohibited under RCW 70.155.010, with state-level enforcement and penalties.

Spokane tow operators need Washington State Patrol registration under RCW 46.55 plus a city business license. Police-rotation tow contracts require additional city qualification, posted maximum rates, and 24-hour vehicle release access.

Smoke shops in Spokane need a city business license plus state tobacco and vapor product retailer licenses. Cannabis retail is regulated separately by the Washington Liquor and Cannabis Board with strict zoning buffers.

Spokane secondhand dealers in precious metals must register, retain seller identification, and report transactions to police under RCW 19.60. General thrift and consignment stores are exempt unless dealing in jewelry or precious metals.

Spokane Ordinance C-35601 adopted in 2017 limits city cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. Washington's Keep Washington Working Act, RCW 10.93.160, extends similar limits statewide for state and local agencies.

Washington has no state E-Verify mandate, and RCW 49.60 prohibits employment discrimination based on national origin or immigration-related characteristics statewide.

Spokane prohibits open alcohol containers in public streets, sidewalks, parks, and parking lots under SMC Chapter 10 and RCW 66.44. Designated event areas and licensed sidewalk cafes are the limited exceptions.

Spokane prohibits aggressive panhandling that involves intimidation, blocking pathways, or following people, but passive panhandling is constitutionally protected speech. Time and place rules near ATMs and bus stops apply citywide.

Spokane prohibits urination and defecation in public spaces under SMC Chapter 10 nuisance and public conduct provisions. Violations are misdemeanors but Spokane Police typically issue civil citations or warnings for first offenses.

Although Washington legalized recreational cannabis under I-502, public consumption is prohibited statewide under RCW 69.50.445. Spokane enforces this as a civil infraction with $103 ticket plus possible additional municipal sanctions.

Spokane hotel guests pay roughly 14.5% in lodging taxes: a 6.5% Washington sales tax plus city and county lodging components totaling approximately 8% locally. Funds support tourism promotion and the Spokane Public Facilities District.

Spokane workers receive Washington Paid Family and Medical Leave benefits under RCW 49.86, plus city-mandated earned sick leave under SMC Chapter 1.06 since 2016. Both layer onto state Paid Sick Leave under RCW 49.46.210.

Spokane uses the Washington statewide minimum wage of $16.66 per hour as of 2026 under RCW 49.46.020. The state preempts most local wage variation, though some cities like Seattle and SeaTac have higher local minimums.

Washington has no statewide predictable scheduling law and does not preempt local rules, allowing cities like Seattle to enforce secure scheduling ordinances.

Spokane has no municipal ordinance limiting holiday lights on private residential property. Restrictions come from HOA architectural rules under Washington's HOA statute (RCW 64.38). Lights are exempt from SMC sign rules. Lights creating a sustained nuisance can be cited under SMC Chapter 10.08C (Chronic Nuisance).

Spokane has no municipal ordinance limiting inflatable holiday decorations on private property. HOA architectural rules under RCW 64.38 apply in master-planned communities. Right-of-way placement violates SMC Chapter 12.02 (Street Use). Continuous fan noise can trigger SMC Chapter 10.70 (Public Disturbance Noise) enforcement.

Spokane has no municipal ordinance limiting lawn ornaments, statues, or yard art on private property. HOA architectural guidelines under RCW 64.38 apply in master-planned and condo communities. Yard art that obstructs driveway or corner sight triangles (SMC Chapter 17C.110) or encroaches on the public right-of-way violates city code.

Spokane treats outdoor smokers as open-flame cooking devices under International Fire Code 308.1.4 as adopted in SMC Chapter 17F.080. Multifamily balcony 10-ft setbacks apply. SRCAA Stage 1 and Stage 2 burn bans prohibit wood and charcoal smokers during wildfire season. WAC 173-433 governs residential wood smoke.

Permanent outdoor kitchens in Spokane require building, plumbing, electrical, and/or gas permits under SMC Chapter 17F.040 (which adopts the International Residential Code and related codes) when they include utilities or covered structures. SMC Chapter 17C.110 zoning setbacks apply.

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 combustible construction at apartments and condos. Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency (SRCAA) burn bans address wildfire-season smoke concerns.

Washington issues concealed pistol licenses under RCW 9.41.070 on a shall-issue basis to qualified applicants, with statewide preemption preventing local concealed carry rules.

Washington RCW 9.41.290 broadly preempts local firearm regulation, reserving authority over firearm laws to the state legislature with very limited exceptions.

Washington allows open carry of firearms by qualified adults without a permit, with limited statutory restrictions and broad preemption barring most local open carry rules.

Washington RCW 9.41.050 governs carrying firearms in vehicles statewide, requiring a concealed pistol license to carry a loaded handgun in a motor vehicle.

Washington's Growth Management Act under RCW 36.70A.170 requires counties and cities to designate and protect agricultural lands of long-term commercial significance through zoning.

Washington RCW 7.48.305 protects established agricultural activities from nuisance lawsuits when operations existed before nearby nonagricultural land uses changed the area.