Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Lynnwood, WA

Airbnb listings are allowed in Lynnwood, WA, but with restrictions. STRs are defined as a lodging use distinct from hotels and motels; operators must obtain a city business license and verify zoning compliance with the Planning Department. Per Washington State law (RCW 64.37), operators must maintain $1,000,000 in liability insurance, remit all applicable taxes, and post safety information including floor plans, emergency contacts, and occupancy limits. A permit is required before you can host. These rules apply to all short-term rental platforms (Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, etc.) — not just Airbnb specifically. See the official source linked on this page for full requirements. Last verified 2026-05-14.

STRs are defined as a lodging use distinct from hotels and motels; operators must obtain a city business license and verify zoning compliance with the Planning Department. Per Washington State law (RCW 64.37), operators must maintain $1,000,000 in liability insurance, remit all applicable taxes, and post safety information including floor plans, emergency contacts, and occupancy limits.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Lynnwood. (1) Contact the Lynnwood Planning Department (Planning@LynnwoodWA.gov or 425-670-5410) to confirm the STR use is allowed at the specific property address. (2) Apply for a Lynnwood city business license endorsement through the Washington State Department of Revenue Business Licensing Service (BLS) online portal. (3) Ensure compliance with Washington State safety requirements (RCW 64.37), including carbon monoxide alarms and posting emergency contact information.

(1) Contact the Lynnwood Planning Department (Planning@LynnwoodWA.gov or 425-670-5410) to confirm the STR use is allowed at the specific property address. (2) Apply for a Lynnwood city business license endorsement through the Washington State Department of Revenue Business Licensing Service (BLS) online portal. (3) Ensure compliance with Washington State safety requirements (RCW 64.37), including carbon monoxide alarms and posting emergency contact information.

Vrbo is permitted in Lynnwood, WA under the same restrictions that apply to Airbnb — local rules govern the rental itself, not the specific platform. You must hold a valid permit before hosting on Vrbo. Last verified 2026-05-14.

Short-term rental hosts in Lynnwood 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 Lynnwood. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.