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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Kirkland, WA

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

STRs are regulated and primarily apply to detached single-family residences; owners or authorized agents who continuously occupy the residence as their primary residence may rent with no annual day limit, OR must occupy the property as primary residence at least 245 days/year to be eligible but then short-term rentals are limited to 120 days/year when not continuously occupied. A property manager located within 15 miles must be identified when owner/agent is absent; no more than two short-term rental agreements at the property at any one time; occupancy and parking follow city zoning limits (no more than five unrelated persons; one parking stall per STR, with additional stalls if permanent residents live in the unit).

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Register with the State of Washington Department of Revenue; 2) Apply for a City of Kirkland business license (via the Washington Business Licensing Service/City business license portal) and complete and submit the City short-term rental declaration form; pay required City business license fees as stated (base $100 plus RGRL $130 per employee, with $50 registration option if gross receipts <$20,000); 3) Provide property manager contact information if owner/agent will be absent and ensure lodging excise taxes are remitted to the State.

Official Resources

Official Kirkland STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Kirkland, WA?
STRs are regulated and primarily apply to detached single-family residences; owners or authorized agents who continuously occupy the residence as their primary residence may rent with no annual day limit, OR must occupy the property as primary residence at least 245 days/year to be eligible but then short-term rentals are limited to 120 days/year when not continuously occupied. A property manager located within 15 miles must be identified when owner/agent is absent; no more than two short-term rental agreements at the property at any one time; occupancy and parking follow city zoning limits (no more than five unrelated persons; one parking stall per STR, with additional stalls if permanent residents live in the unit).
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Kirkland?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Kirkland. 1) Register with the State of Washington Department of Revenue; 2) Apply for a City of Kirkland business license (via the Washington Business Licensing Service/City business license portal) and complete and submit the City short-term rental declaration form; pay required City business license fees as stated (base $100 plus RGRL $130 per employee, with $50 registration option if gross receipts <$20,000); 3) Provide property manager contact information if owner/agent will be absent and ensure lodging excise taxes are remitted to the State.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Kirkland?
1) Register with the State of Washington Department of Revenue; 2) Apply for a City of Kirkland business license (via the Washington Business Licensing Service/City business license portal) and complete and submit the City short-term rental declaration form; pay required City business license fees as stated (base $100 plus RGRL $130 per employee, with $50 registration option if gross receipts <$20,000); 3) Provide property manager contact information if owner/agent will be absent and ensure lodging excise taxes are remitted to the State.
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Disclaimer

This information is for general reference only and may not reflect the most current regulations. STR regulations change frequently. Always verify requirements with official local government sources before operating a short-term rental.

Last verified: March 2026 · Suggest a correction