Yakima Short Term Rental Regulation: A Guide For Airbnb Hosts

What are short term rental (Airbnb, VRBO) regulations in Yakima,Washington?

Are you planning to start a short-term rental business in Yakima, Washington, using platforms like Airbnb or VRBO? It's important to understand the regulations that govern these types of rentals in the area. Yakima has established specific rules for short-term rentals through its zoning code, planning code, and ordinances. These regulations cover licensing requirements, required documents, taxes, and other important considerations. In this article, we'll provide a comprehensive overview of the rules and regulations that apply to short-term rentals in Yakima, including steps to get started, who to contact for more information, and what local Airbnb hosts think about the regulations. Whether you're a new or experienced STR operator, this guide will help you navigate the rules and regulations in Yakima and ensure that you're operating your business legally and responsibly.

Starting a Short Term Rental Business in Yakima

Starting a short-term rental business in Yakima, Washington, requires compliance with the city's regulations. To operate an STR, you must first determine if your property is in a zoning district that allows STRs. If it is, you must obtain a City of Yakima Business License and undergo a land use review process. Additionally, you must ensure compliance with all applicable health, fire, safety, and building codes, as well as collect and remit all applicable local, state, and federal taxes. Finally, you must provide contact information to guests, post emergency contact information, and display the dwelling unit's floor plan, maximum occupancy limits, and carbon monoxide alarm compliance. By following these steps, you can establish a successful short-term rental business in Yakima while adhering to the city's regulations.

Short Term Rental Licensing Requirement in Yakima

To operate a short-term rental in Yakima, you must obtain a City of Yakima Business License, which is renewed annually, and undergo a one-time land use review process. This process involves submitting an application, paying a fee, and providing documentation such as proof of insurance and a floor plan of the dwelling unit. The land use review ensures that the property is in a zoning district that allows STRs and that the unit meets all applicable health, fire, safety, and building codes. Once approved, the STR operator must comply with all regulations, including providing contact information to guests, posting emergency contact information, and displaying the dwelling unit's floor plan, maximum occupancy limits, and carbon monoxide alarm compliance. It is also the responsibility of the STR operator to collect and remit all applicable local, state, and federal taxes, unless the platform does this on the operator's behalf. By following these regulations, STR operators can ensure that they are operating legally and safely in Yakima.

Required Documents for Yakima Short Term Rentals

To operate a short-term rental in Yakima, you must adhere to specific documentation requirements. Ensure that your property and rental practices comply with the following:

City of Yakima Business License: Obtain a City of Yakima Business License, which must be renewed annually. The license is required for all short-term rental operators, whether the property is intended for short-term stays or more permanent use1.

Land Use Review: Undergo a one-time land use review process, which is necessary for all short-term rental operators. This review ensures compliance with zoning regulations1.

Home Occupation Permit: If you operate a short-term rental in a residential zone, you must apply for a home occupation permit. This permit requires compliance with the 13 conditions listed in Yakima Municipal Code (YMC) Chapter 15.04.120(C)1.

Contact Information: Provide contact information to guests, including the emergency contact information for summoning police, fire, or emergency medical services5.

Floor Plan and Maximum Occupancy Limits: Post the floor plan indicating fire exits and escape routes, as well as the maximum occupancy limits, in a conspicuous place within each dwelling unit used as a short-term rental5.

Carbon Monoxide Alarm Compliance: Ensure that your short-term rental is in compliance with RCW 19.27.530 and any rules adopted by the state building code council regarding the installation of carbon monoxide alarms4.

Local, State, and Federal Taxes: Collect and remit all applicable local, state, and federal taxes, unless the platform does this on the operator's behalf3.

Homeowner's Insurance: Maintain primary liability insurance to cover the short-term rental dwelling unit4.

City of Yakima Business License Application Packet: Obtain the City of Yakima Business License application packet, which can be found online1.

Text Amendments: Familiarize yourself with Yakima County Code Title 19.18.420, which pertains to short-term rentals (STRs)2.

Zoning and Land Use Regulations: Review the zoning and land use regulations for your property, as outlined in Yakima Municipal Code Chapter 15.041.

Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Regulations: If your property has an ADU, ensure compliance with Yakima County Code Title 19.18.0202.

Local Government Contact Information: Keep the contact information for the City of Yakima's Planning Division on hand for questions pertaining to short-term rental regulations and zoning1.

Local Government Text Amendments: Stay informed about text amendments related to short-term rentals and accessory dwelling units, as they may affect your property2.

Local Government Code and Ordinances: Familiarize yourself with the local government code and ordinances that pertain to short-term rentals, as they may change over time1.

Local Government Fees: Be aware of the fees associated with obtaining a City of Yakima Business License and undergoing a land use review process1.

Local Government Contact Information: Keep the contact information for the City of Yakima's Planning Division on hand for questions pertaining to short-term rental regulations and zoning1.

Local Government Text Amendments: Stay informed about text amendments related to short-term rentals and accessory dwelling units, as they may affect your property2.

Local Government Code and Ordinances: Familiarize yourself with the local government code and ordinances that pertain to short-term rentals, as they may change over time1.

Local Government Fees: Be aware of the fees associated with obtaining a City of Yakima Business License and undergoing a land use review process1.

By ensuring compliance with these requirements, you can operate a short-term rental in Yakima with confidence.

Yakima Short Term Rental Taxes

Short-term rental (STR) operators in Yakima, Washington, are subject to various tax obligations to ensure a fair and equitable contribution to the local economy. To help you navigate the tax landscape, we've compiled a straightforward guide to Yakima's STR tax regulations.

Local Taxes

STR operators must collect and remit all applicable local taxes, such as the City of Yakima's Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) and Business and Occupation (B&O) Tax. The TOT is a 10.5% tax on the rental rate, while the B&O Tax is a flat rate based on the rental income.

State Taxes

STR operators must also collect and remit Washington State's 6.5% sales tax on the rental rate. In addition, STR operators must pay the state's B&O Tax, which is a flat rate based on the rental income.

Federal Taxes

STR operators must report their rental income on their federal tax returns and pay any applicable federal taxes, such as income tax and self-employment tax.

Tax Collection and Remittance

STR platforms like Airbnb and VRBO may collect and remit taxes on behalf of their hosts, but it's essential to verify that the platform is collecting and remitting all applicable taxes. If the platform does not collect and remit taxes, it's the host's responsibility to do so.

Tax Reporting

STR operators must report their rental income and taxes paid on their annual tax returns. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) requires STR operators to report their rental income and expenses on Schedule E of their federal tax returns.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

STR operators who fail to collect and remit taxes may face penalties and fines. It's essential to understand and comply with all tax regulations to avoid potential legal issues.

Conclusion

STR operators in Yakima must be aware of their tax obligations and ensure they collect and remit all applicable taxes. By understanding and complying with these regulations, STR operators can avoid potential legal issues and contribute to the local economy.

Yakima wide Short Term Rental Rules

In Yakima, Washington, short-term rentals (STRs) are permitted in specific zoning districts, including CBD, SR, R-1, R-2, R-3, B-1, SCC, LCC, and GC. However, to operate an STR in these areas, hosts must undergo a Type 1 or Type 2 land use review process. Additionally, owners residing in the house may operate a home occupation short-term rental in residential zones. These regulations are designed to ensure that STRs align with the city's zoning and land use objectives while also considering the impact on residential neighborhoods.

Does Yakima strictly enforce STR rules?” Is Yakima Airbnb friendly?

Yakima, Washington, has established regulations for short-term rentals (STRs) through its zoning code, planning code, and ordinances. However, discussions on Bigger Pockets and Reddit suggest that some STR hosts in Yakima operate despite the rules, with a perception that the city is not Airbnb-friendly due to strict regulations and inconsistent enforcement.

It is important to note that STR operators must obtain a City of Yakima Business License and undergo a land use review process, as well as comply with health, fire, safety, and building codes. Additionally, STR hosts must collect and remit all applicable local, state, and federal taxes, and provide contact information to guests, post emergency contact information, and display the dwelling unit's floor plan, maximum occupancy limits, and carbon monoxide alarm compliance.

If you are considering starting a short-term rental business in Yakima, it is crucial to understand and comply with all regulations and requirements.

How to Start a Short Term Rental Business in Yakima

Embarking on a short-term rental (STR) venture in Yakima, Washington, requires adherence to specific regulations and guidelines. To ensure a smooth and compliant start, follow these straightforward steps:

1. Verify Zoning Eligibility

Confirm that your property is located in a zoning district that allows STRs. Yakima permits STRs in certain zones, such as CBD, SR, R-1, R-2, R-3, B-1, SCC, LCC, and GC.

2. Obtain a City of Yakima Business License

Apply for a City of Yakima Business License, which is renewed annually, and undergo a one-time land use review process.

3. Comply with Building and Safety Codes

Ensure that your property meets all applicable health, fire, safety, and building codes.

4. Collect and Remit Taxes

Collect and remit all applicable local, state, and federal taxes.

5. Provide Contact Information to Guests

Post contact information for guests, such as your name, phone number, and email address.

6. Post Emergency Contact Information

Display emergency contact information, including the name and phone number of a local emergency contact.

7. Display Dwelling Unit Floor Plan

Post the dwelling unit's floor plan, including the number of bedrooms and bathrooms.

8. Display Maximum Occupancy Limits

Display the maximum occupancy limits for the dwelling unit.

9. Comply with Carbon Monoxide Alarm Regulations

Ensure compliance with carbon monoxide alarm regulations.

10. Register with Airbnb or VRBO

Create an account with Airbnb or VRBO and list your property according to their guidelines.

11. Set Competitive Pricing and Availability

Research the local market to set competitive pricing and availability for your STR.

12. Provide Exceptional Guest Experience

Offer a clean, well-maintained property and provide excellent customer service to ensure positive guest reviews.

13. Monitor and Respond to Guest Reviews

Regularly monitor and respond to guest reviews to address any concerns and improve your STR's reputation.

14. Stay Informed about Local Regulations

Keep up-to-date with Yakima's STR regulations and any changes to ensure compliance.

15. Contact City of Yakima Planning Division

For questions pertaining to establishing or vacating an easement, contact the City of Yakima Planning Division at (509) 575-6183 or ask.planning@yakimawa.gov.

By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to launching a successful short-term rental business in Yakima, Washington. Remember to stay informed about local regulations and to provide an exceptional guest experience to ensure a positive reputation for your STR.

Who to contact in Yakima about Short Term Rental Regulations and Zoning?

If you have any questions or concerns regarding short-term rental regulations and zoning in Yakima, Washington, it is recommended that you contact the City of Yakima Planning Division. They can provide you with the necessary information and guidance to ensure that you are in compliance with all applicable regulations.

You can reach the Planning Division by phone at (509) 575-6183 or by email at ask.planning@yakimawa.gov. Don't hesitate to reach out to them for assistance in navigating the process of establishing or vacating an easement.

What do Airbnb hosts in Yakima on Reddit and Bigger Pockets think about local regulations?

Yakima's short-term rental regulations, as outlined by the Yakima Municipal Code (YMC) and Yakima County Code, are a topic of discussion among Airbnb hosts on platforms like Reddit and Bigger Pockets. While some hosts express frustration over the strictness of the rules compared to other cities, others have found ways to navigate the regulations and maintain successful short-term rental businesses4.

Challenges and Concerns

• Strict Enforcement: Some hosts feel that Yakima's enforcement of short-term rental regulations is strict, leading to frustration and a perception that the city is not Airbnb-friendly4.
• Compliance Complexity: The rules and regulations can be complex, making it challenging for hosts to ensure compliance4.

Strategies for Compliance

• Staying Informed: Hosts who are aware of the regulations and stay up-to-date with changes are better equipped to maintain compliance4.
• Collaborating with Neighbors: Some hosts have found success by working with their neighbors to address concerns and maintain good relationships4.

Resources for Hosts

• City of Yakima Planning Division: For questions pertaining to establishing or vacating an easement, contact the City of Yakima Planning Division at (509) 575-6183 or ask.planning@yakimawa.gov2.
• Reddit and Bigger Pockets Discussions: Hosts can find support and advice from other Yakima Airbnb hosts by participating in discussions on these platforms4.

Conclusion

While some Airbnb hosts in Yakima express frustration over the strictness of the regulations, others have found ways to navigate the rules and maintain successful short-term rental businesses. By staying informed, collaborating with neighbors, and utilizing resources like the City of Yakima Planning Division, hosts can ensure compliance and success in Yakima's short-term rental market.