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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Ocean Shores, WA

Last verified: 2026-05-14 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals are restricted to B-1 and B-2 zones. Operators must maintain a city business license, provide proof of liability insurance, and designate a local representative available 24/7 to respond within two hours. Occupancy is limited by the certificate of occupancy, and at least one on-site parking space per four guests is required.

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Obtain a city business license and submit an STR permit application with the required nonrefundable fee. 2. Pass a mandatory building and fire safety inspection conducted by the city. 3. Provide proof of liability insurance and ensure all advertisements include the permit number and good neighbor policy.

Official Resources

Official Ocean Shores STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Airbnbs legal in Ocean Shores, WA?
Airbnb listings are allowed in Ocean Shores, WA, but with restrictions. Short-term rentals are restricted to B-1 and B-2 zones. Operators must maintain a city business license, provide proof of liability insurance, and designate a local representative available 24/7 to respond within two hours. Occupancy is limited by the certificate of occupancy, and at least one on-site parking space per four guests is required. 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.
Are short-term rentals allowed in Ocean Shores, WA?
Short-term rentals are restricted to B-1 and B-2 zones. Operators must maintain a city business license, provide proof of liability insurance, and designate a local representative available 24/7 to respond within two hours. Occupancy is limited by the certificate of occupancy, and at least one on-site parking space per four guests is required.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Ocean Shores?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Ocean Shores. 1. Obtain a city business license and submit an STR permit application with the required nonrefundable fee. 2. Pass a mandatory building and fire safety inspection conducted by the city. 3. Provide proof of liability insurance and ensure all advertisements include the permit number and good neighbor policy.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Ocean Shores?
1. Obtain a city business license and submit an STR permit application with the required nonrefundable fee. 2. Pass a mandatory building and fire safety inspection conducted by the city. 3. Provide proof of liability insurance and ensure all advertisements include the permit number and good neighbor policy.
Is Vrbo legal in Ocean Shores, WA?
Vrbo is permitted in Ocean Shores, 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.
What taxes do short-term rental hosts pay in Ocean Shores?
Short-term rental hosts in Ocean Shores 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.
What is the latest short-term rental ordinance change in Ocean Shores?
We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Ocean Shores. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.
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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: 2026-05-14 · Suggest a correction