Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Yakima, WA

Airbnb listings are allowed in Yakima, WA, but with restrictions. Short-term rentals must meet all health, fire, safety, and building codes. Home-occupation STRs are limited to five guest rooms, must maintain residential character, and have specific signage and parking screening requirements. Receptions or special gatherings require separate authorization from an administrative official. 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.

Short-term rentals must meet all health, fire, safety, and building codes. Home-occupation STRs are limited to five guest rooms, must maintain residential character, and have specific signage and parking screening requirements. Receptions or special gatherings require separate authorization from an administrative official.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Yakima. 1. Determine the required review level (Type 1, 2, or 3) based on property zoning in YMC 15.04. 2. Submit the appropriate Land Use Review application and fees to the Planning Division via email, mail, or in person at the Permits Counter. 3. Obtain a City business license and ensure the property complies with all health, fire, and safety standards outlined in YMC 15.09.080.

1. Determine the required review level (Type 1, 2, or 3) based on property zoning in YMC 15.04. 2. Submit the appropriate Land Use Review application and fees to the Planning Division via email, mail, or in person at the Permits Counter. 3. Obtain a City business license and ensure the property complies with all health, fire, and safety standards outlined in YMC 15.09.080.

Vrbo is permitted in Yakima, 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 Yakima 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 Yakima. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.