Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Anacortes, WA

No — Airbnb-style short-term rentals are not allowed in Anacortes, WA. Short-term rentals (under 30 nights) are generally prohibited in all residential and mixed-use zones in Anacortes. Units with a valid city business license issued prior to the 2019 and 2024 code changes may continue to operate if they maintain their license and comply with local and state regulations. The ban applies to all short-term rental platforms (Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, etc.), not just Airbnb. See the official source linked on this page for full requirements. Last verified 2026-05-14.

Short-term rentals (under 30 nights) are generally prohibited in all residential and mixed-use zones in Anacortes. Units with a valid city business license issued prior to the 2019 and 2024 code changes may continue to operate if they maintain their license and comply with local and state regulations.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Anacortes. New short-term rentals are not permitted. Existing grandfathered units must maintain their license by renewing online through the Washington State Department of Revenue Business Licensing Service (BLS) and paying the $40 Anacortes endorsement fee.

New short-term rentals are not permitted. Existing grandfathered units must maintain their license by renewing online through the Washington State Department of Revenue Business Licensing Service (BLS) and paying the $40 Anacortes endorsement fee.

No. Because Anacortes, WA prohibits this type of short-term rental, the ban covers Vrbo just as it covers Airbnb and Booking.com — switching platforms does not change the legal status. Last verified 2026-05-14.

Short-term rental hosts in Anacortes are typically responsible for lodging, occupancy, and applicable sales taxes — these usually apply even where hosting is allowed without a permit. Rates and remittance rules vary by jurisdiction (state, county, and city can each levy a share); confirm the current rates with the official source linked on this page. Platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo collect some taxes automatically, but the host remains liable for any not collected on their behalf.

We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Anacortes. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.