Renton, WA allows short-term rentals (STRs) for less than 30 consecutive days, subject to specific regulations.

Overview

Short-term rentals (STRs) are permitted in the City of Renton, Washington. Renton Municipal Code 4-4-055 governs the short-term rental of a dwelling unit or portion thereof. The city defines a short-term rental as a property advertised for overnight accommodations for any period less than 30 continuous days. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the legal and operational requirements for establishing and maintaining a compliant STR business in Renton.

Step-by-Step Guide to Starting a Short-Term Rental Business

To initiate an STR operation in Renton, investors must follow a clear process.

1. Obtain a City Business License: The first requirement is to secure a City of Renton Business License before advertising or operating any short-term rental.
2. Determine Occupancy Requirements: Confirm whether the property will be owner-occupied. If renting to multiple parties simultaneously, the property must be owner-occupied.
3. Confirm Property Eligibility: Ensure the property has no active code violations and complies with zoning and property maintenance standards.
4. Meet Safety and Insurance Standards: Install and maintain required safety equipment, including carbon monoxide alarms and a posted safety sign/map in each bedroom. Maintain liability insurance of at least $1,000,000.
5. Address Parking Needs: Provide off-street parking for guests as required by the Renton Municipal Code, Title IV. An additional space is needed for owner-occupied properties.
6. Register for Taxes: Collect and remit applicable state and local lodging taxes. Rental platforms like Airbnb may collect these on behalf of hosts.

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

The following documentation is required to operate an STR in compliance with city and state law.

• City of Renton Business License (Required): This license must be obtained from the city before operating any short-term rental.
• Safety Signage (Required): A safety sign/map must be displayed in each bedroom showing the location of fire extinguishers, gas shut-off valves, and exits.
• Proof of Insurance (Required): Operators must maintain at least $1,000,000 in primary liability insurance.
• Compliance with International Codes (Required): Properties must comply with the International Fire Code and Prevention Regulations, as well as the International Property Maintenance Code.
• Confirmation of Off-Street Parking (Required): Properties must demonstrate compliance with Title IV RMC parking requirements.

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

The following regulations outline the specific rules and standards for STR operators in Renton.

• Business License: A City of Renton Business License is mandatory for all STR operators.
• Owner-Occupancy Requirement: If the property is rented to multiple parties at the same time, the dwelling must be owner-occupied.
• Occupancy Limit: The number of guests, including the owner and related family members if the unit is owner-occupied during rentals, is limited to two (2) per bedroom.
• Off-Street Parking: Off-street parking must be provided in accordance with Title IV RMC. One additional parking space is required if the unit is owner-occupied.
• Safety Regulations: Properties must comply with the International Fire Code and Prevention Regulations. A safety sign/map must be placed in each bedroom detailing the location of fire extinguishers, gas shut-off valves, and exits. Properties must also comply with the International Property Maintenance Code.
• Property Maintenance: Properties must meet the standards of the International Property Maintenance Code.
• Liability Insurance: STR operators are required to maintain $1,000,000 in primary liability insurance.
• Tax Compliance: Operators must remit all applicable state and local taxes, including sales and lodging taxes. Platforms may collect and remit these taxes on behalf of hosts.
• Violations and Penalties: Violations of Renton Municipal Code 4-4-055 are classified as a misdemeanor, subject to the penalties outlined in RMC 1-3-1.

Local Authority Contact Information

For licensing, registration, and compliance inquiries, investors should contact the City of Renton.

• Renton Business License Information:
  • Phone: 425-430-6400
• Renton Rental Registration Program:
  • Phone: 425-430-7259
  • Email: rentalregistration@rentonwa.gov

Links to Source Pages

• Renton Municipal Code 4-4-055: Short-Term Rentals
• Airbnb: Renton, WA Hosting Rules and Regulations
• City of Renton: Rental Registration Program
• Renton Reporter: City Approves STR Regulations
• RedAwning: Renton, WA STR Market Overview
• GoSummer: Renton, WA STR Management Overview