Title
Briefing on Short-Term Rental Permitting and Enforcement
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Receive a briefing on short-term rental permitting and enforcement.
Report
Issue:
Whether to receive a briefing on short-term rental permitting and enforcement.
Staff Contact:
Casey Mauck, AICP, Associate Planner, Community Planning and Economic Development, 360.753.8048
Presenter(s):
Casey Mauck, AICP, Associate Planner, Community Planning and Economic Development
Background and Analysis:
Short-term rental (STR) permits follow a similar process to other development permits, with applicants required to submit an application through the City's online permit portal prior to operation.
The City recognizes two types of STRs: vacation rentals and homestays. Vacation rentals require a land use permit and involve rental of a property where the owner does not reside onsite. Homestays do not require a land use permit and involve a property owner residing onsite while renting a portion of the home
In August 2021, the City Council adopted the STR ordinance following concerns from community members regarding the lack of regulation of these rentals. Currently, there are 30 active STR permits. Permits are required only for vacation rentals and are valid for two years. The table below summarizes the number of approved STR permits by year.
2021
(Sept-Dec)
2022
2023
2024
2025
2026|1010
10
10|12
17|1010|
Enforcement of STR regulations is conducted on a complaint-based basis. Code Enforcement staff have indicated that STRs are not a significant source of community complaints at this time.
Climate Analysis:
No program changes are recommended at this time. Climate impacts would be assessed at the time of any recommended changes.
Equity Analysis:
STRs can affect the availability of housing by influencing the supply of units available for short-term rental, as well as the supply of homes available for ...
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