What zoning rules apply to STRs in Bellevue?

Residential Ban: Short-term rentals are effectively banned in residential zones (R-1 through R-30).

What should Bellevue hosts know about 30-day rule: any rental less?

30-Day Rule: Any rental less than 30 days is considered transient and is restricted to commercial districts.

What should Bellevue hosts know about bed & breakfast loophole: while?

Bed & Breakfast Loophole: While 'Bed and Breakfasts' are sometimes allowed, they require the owner to live on-site and have extremely strict licensing that doesn't apply to standard Airbnb whole-home rentals.

What should Bellevue hosts know about active enforcement: the city of?

Active Enforcement: The City of Bellevue Code Enforcement department investigates complaints about illegal STRs in residential neighborhoods.

Bellevue, WA Short-Term Rental Regulations & Zoning Laws

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Regulation details

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Eligibility4 rules

Bellevue does NOT allow tenants to host STRs. Only property owners may operate short-term rentals.
Bellevue allows STRs in the following property types: Hotels, Motels, Transient Lodging in Commercial Zones.
Bellevue prohibits STRs in the following property types: Single Family Homes, Apartments, Condos, ADUs, Townhomes.

Requirements11 rules

Bellevue does not require STR registration.
Bellevue: You must display your permit/registration number on your listing. Platforms may remove non-compliant listings.
Bellevue STR warning: Active Enforcement: The City of Bellevue Code Enforcement department investigates complaints about illegal STRs in residential neighborhoods.

Application process6 rules

Step-by-step guide to get an STR permit in Bellevue: Step 1: Zoning Verification - Check the Bellevue Land Use Code to confirm your property is in a zone where 'Transient Lodging' is a permitted use. It is prohibited in all 'R' (Residential) zones. Documents needed: Property address, Zoning map access. Estimated time: 1 day. More info: https://bellevue.elaws.us/code/luc_20.10.440 Step 2: Obtain State Tax ID - Register your business with the Washington State Department of Revenue to receive a Unified Business Identifier (UBI) number. Documents needed: SSN or FEIN, Business ownership info. Estimated time: 1 week. Cost: 50. More info: https://dor.wa.gov/open-business Step 3: Apply for Bellevue Business License - Apply for a general business license through the FileLocal portal. If operating transient lodging, you must register as a 'Hotel/Motel' or 'Transient Lodging' provider. Documents needed: State UBI number, Property details. Estimated time: 2 weeks. Cost: 105. More info: https://www.filelocal-wa.gov/

Taxes2 rules

Bellevue charges a Transient Occupancy Tax of 0.02%. This applies to stays under 30 days. Platforms like Airbnb collect and remit this tax. Note: Airbnb and VRBO collect and remit Washington State sales tax and local lodging taxes.
Washington has a state sales tax of 0.065% that applies to STR rentals.

Limits & restrictions2 rules

Bellevue requires a minimum stay of 30 nights.
Bellevue enforces quiet hours: 10:00 PM - 7:00 AM.

Safety requirements1 rule

Bellevue requires the following safety measures for STRs: smoke detectors, CO detectors, fire extinguisher.

Penalties2 rules

Bellevue enforces the following penalties for STR violations: First offense: Notice of Violation. Second offense: Monetary penalty per day. Third offense: Legal action. Daily fine: 500.00. Permit may be revoked for violations.
Bellevue: Repeated violations can result in permanent permit revocation. You would lose the ability to operate any STR.

Exemptions2 rules

Bellevue: Rentals of 30+ days are generally NOT considered short-term rentals and may be exempt from STR regulations (but may have other requirements).
Bellevue exempts the following from STR regulations: long-term rentals (30+ days), extended stays, Bed and Breakfasts (strictly regulated Home Occupations).

Bellevue

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Summary

Restriction level

Why this classification

In plain English

At a glance

4 things hosts often miss

Regulation details

How to get permitted

Upgrade to Pro

Frequently asked questions

1Are short-term rentals allowed in Bellevue?

2What is the short-term rental tax rate in Bellevue?

3Do I need a permit for short-term rentals in Bellevue?

4What are the penalties for non-compliance in Bellevue?

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