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

**Yes**, you need a Short-Term Rental permit to operate legally in Bellingham. You need to apply for this mandatory land-use permit, which is subject to annual renewal. The permit costs $160 per year. Ensure you obtain this permit before listing your property on platforms like Airbnb. (54 words)

What is the TOT tax rate in Bellingham, WA?

**2% TOT** is the current transient occupancy tax rate for short-term rentals within the city. Hosts are responsible for collecting this tax from guests and remitting it to the city. Check with the Bellingham finance department for information regarding filing deadlines and payment methods to ensure compliance. (52 words)

Are short-term rentals allowed in Bellingham?

**Yes**, short-term rentals are permitted in Bellingham, WA, but they are subject to specific regulations. The city distinguishes between Type 1 (primary residence) and Type 2 (secondary residence) rentals. Note that Type 2 rentals are prohibited in certain residential single zones, so check your zoning before listing your property. (53 words)

How much does an STR permit cost in Bellingham?

**The STR permit** currently costs $160 annually in Bellingham, Washington. This is a mandatory fee for all short-term rental operators within the city. It is important to note that the permit is subject to annual renewal, and you must keep your permit current to avoid penalties from the city. (53 words)

Can renters host on Airbnb in Bellingham?

**Yes**, tenants can host on Airbnb in Bellingham, Washington. However, renters must still comply with all applicable short-term rental regulations, including obtaining the required land-use permit and collecting/remitting the 2% TOT. Landlords may also have specific restrictions in lease agreements, so review your lease. (52 words)

Bellingham, WA Short-Term Rental Laws

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Eligibility10 rules

Bellingham, WA: You can have a co-host or property manager help manage your listing.
Bellingham allows STRs in the following property types: Single-family homes, Multi-family units, ADUs (subject to restrictions).
Bellingham limits hosts to a maximum of 1 STR properties per owner.
Bellingham: Type 2 (secondary residence) STRs are prohibited in Residential Single (RS) zones.

Requirements24 rules

Bellingham STR warning: A city business license is required in addition to the STR permit.
Bellingham STR warning: Safety inspections are not automatic but the city may audit and inspect properties for compliance.
Bellingham STR warning: The 2% local lodging tax is required for stays under 30 days.
Bellingham STR warning: Permit numbers must be displayed in all online advertisements/listings.

Application process10 rules

Bellingham, WA extended permit requirement: Renewal fee is lower than initial application fee.

Fees & costs1 rule

Bellingham charges a registration fee of $160 (annual). Extended/additional fee: $100 (Renewal fee is lower than initial application fee.).

Taxes3 rules

Washington has a state sales tax of 6.5% that applies to STR rentals.
Bellingham charges a Lodging Tax of 2%. This applies to stays under 30 days. Platforms like Airbnb collect and remit this tax. Note: Airbnb and VRBO generally collect state and local taxes, but hosts must still file returns with the city.
Bellingham: The 2% local lodging tax is required for stays under 30 days.

Limits & restrictions7 rules

Bellingham, WA: Each person can only register ONE property for short-term rental. You cannot legally operate multiple STRs.
Bellingham occupancy calculation: 2 guests per bedroom + 2 additional, up to 12 maximum.. Count your bedrooms to determine your max guest limit.
Bellingham: Each person can only register ONE property for short-term rental. You cannot legally operate multiple STRs.

Safety requirements2 rules

Bellingham: Safety inspections are not automatic but the city may audit and inspect properties for compliance.
Bellingham requires the following safety measures for STRs: smoke detectors, CO detectors, fire extinguisher, posted maximum occupancy, posted emergency contact, Interconnected smoke alarms, Egress windows in sleeping rooms.

Penalties3 rules

Bellingham enforces the following penalties for STR violations: First offense: $100 fine. Second offense: $500 fine. Third offense: $1,000 fine. Daily fine: $250 per day for continuing violations. Permit may be revoked for violations.
Bellingham: Repeated violations can result in permanent permit revocation. You would lose the ability to operate any STR.

Exemptions3 rules

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

Bellingham

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Summary

Restriction level

Why this classification

In plain English

At a glance

7 things hosts often miss

Regulation details

Frequently asked questions

1Do I need a permit for short-term rentals in Bellingham?

2What is the TOT tax rate in Bellingham, WA?

3Are short-term rentals allowed in Bellingham?

4How much does an STR permit cost in Bellingham?

5Can renters host on Airbnb in Bellingham?

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