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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Lewis County, WA

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals are allowed countywide but subject to limits in Urban Growth Area – Small Towns and Type I LAMIRDs (e.g., a 25% cap of existing dwelling units). STRs must be legal dwelling units limited to two guests per bedroom plus three additional guests, provide one on-site parking space per bedroom, have approved potable water and sewage, and post a 24-hour local contact.

How to Obtain a Permit

1) Apply through the Lewis County Department of Community Development online portal (co-lewis-wa.smartgovcommunity.com); 2) Demonstrate compliance with standards including building permits/life-safety inspections, working smoke/CO detectors, permitted wastewater systems, and $1,000,000 liability insurance; 3) Pay applicable fees and renew the permit annually.

Official Resources

Official Lewis County STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Lewis County, WA?
Short-term rentals are allowed countywide but subject to limits in Urban Growth Area – Small Towns and Type I LAMIRDs (e.g., a 25% cap of existing dwelling units). STRs must be legal dwelling units limited to two guests per bedroom plus three additional guests, provide one on-site parking space per bedroom, have approved potable water and sewage, and post a 24-hour local contact.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Lewis County?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Lewis County. 1) Apply through the Lewis County Department of Community Development online portal (co-lewis-wa.smartgovcommunity.com); 2) Demonstrate compliance with standards including building permits/life-safety inspections, working smoke/CO detectors, permitted wastewater systems, and $1,000,000 liability insurance; 3) Pay applicable fees and renew the permit annually.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Lewis County?
1) Apply through the Lewis County Department of Community Development online portal (co-lewis-wa.smartgovcommunity.com); 2) Demonstrate compliance with standards including building permits/life-safety inspections, working smoke/CO detectors, permitted wastewater systems, and $1,000,000 liability insurance; 3) Pay applicable fees and renew the permit annually.

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