Blaine, Washington Short-Term Rental Investment Guide

Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Blaine, WA?

YES, short-term rentals are allowed in Blaine, Washington, but with specific restrictions and requirements. The City of Blaine explicitly permits transient accommodations, including services like Airbnb and VRBO, in designated zoning districts under Blaine Municipal Code Title 17. However, operators must comply with zoning requirements, obtain proper licensing, collect applicable taxes, and meet health and safety standards.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Blaine

1. Verify Zoning Compliance

Before proceeding, confirm your property is located in an approved zoning district. STRs are permitted in:

• Gateway Zoning District
• Marine Planned Recreation Zoning District
• Central Business Zoning District
• Highway Commercial Zoning District
• Planned Commercial Zoning District

Note: Properties in purely residential zones may face restrictions. Always verify with the City of Blaine Community Development Services Department before purchasing or converting property.

2. Secure Business Licensing

All STR properties must obtain a city business license through the Community Development Services Department. The application process includes:

• Submission of home occupation forms
• Payment of applicable application fees
• Director approval for land use authorization
• Administrative review as Type I-ADM decisions

3. Establish Tax Compliance

Operators must collect and remit the local lodging tax, currently set at 8.2% on all bookings. This falls under Blaine Municipal Code Chapter 3.22 (Transient Lodging Excise Tax).

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Essential Documents and Permits:

• City Business License (mandatory before operation)
• Home Occupation Application (available through Community Development Services)
• Proof of Liability Insurance (primary coverage for the STR dwelling unit)
• Fire/Life Safety Compliance (see requirements below)

Health and Safety Requirements:

• Fire Safety Equipment: Approved egress window in each sleeping room, working smoke detector in each guest room, household-size fire extinguisher
• Emergency Information Posting: Street address, floor plans indicating fire exits and escape routes, maximum occupancy limits
• Emergency Contact Information: For police, fire, and emergency medical services
• Carbon Monoxide Alarm Installation (if applicable)
• Adequate Essential Public Facilities: Including streets, police/fire protection, refuse disposal, water and sewer (public sewer connection required)

Operational Requirements:

• Maximum Occupancy Limits (must be posted conspicuously)
• Fire Exit Floor Plans (posted within dwelling units)
• Emergency Contact Information (readily accessible to guests)
• Professional Property Management (if owner does not live on-site)

Specific Regulations by Jurisdiction

City of Blaine Regulations:

Zoning Restrictions:

• STRs only permitted in commercial and planned recreation zoning districts
• Residential zones may have additional restrictions
• Bed and breakfast establishments have separate, more stringent requirements under Chapter 17.98

Business License Requirements:

• Required before operation commences
• Processed administratively by Community Development Services Director
• May be appealed to hearing examiner

Enforcement Policy:

• City operates complaint-driven code enforcement program
• Proactive enforcement program authorized for unpermitted STRs in unauthorized zones
• Minimum two-week compliance period for violations
• Violation process: Notice → Voluntary Corrections Agreement → Notice of Civil Violation

Whatcom County Regulations:

• Under current Whatcom County Code, vacation rentals are allowed wherever single-family dwellings are permitted
• County Council has discussed STR regulations since 2014
• No specific county-level STR licensing requirements currently in place
• Public hearings have been held to gauge interest in county-wide STR regulations
• Proposed amendments to Title 20 zoning are under review but not yet adopted

Washington State Regulations:

• State legislature has implemented regulations regarding taxes, consumer safety, platforms, and liability insurance
• State lodging tax requirements apply to all STR operations
• Additional state requirements may apply for facilities with more than two bedrooms

Contact Information for Local Authorities

Primary Contact: City of Blaine Community Development Services

• Address: 435 Martin St. Suite 3000, Blaine, WA 98230
• Phone: (360) 543-9837 (Code Enforcement)
• Email: CodeEnforcement@cityofblaine.com

Additional City Contacts:

• General Customer Service: (360) 332-7124
• Email: customerservice@cityofblaine.com
• Police Department: (360) 332-6769
• Email: police@cityofblaine.com

Whatcom County Contacts:

• Planning and Development Services Department: (Contact county for current information)
• County Council: Contact through Whatcom County government

Whatcom County Humane Society (Animal Control):

• Phone: (360) 733-2080

Important Notes for STR Investors

Market Considerations:

• Blaine experiences strong seasonal demand fluctuations
• Average daily rates range from $90-$239 per night
• High-demand neighborhoods include Birch Bay, Semiahmoo, Blaine Waterfront, Drayton Harbor, and East Blaine
• Dynamic pricing strategies recommended to maximize revenue

Compliance Risks:

• Violations can result in significant fines
• Unpermitted STRs in unauthorized zones face proactive enforcement
• City maintains complaint-driven enforcement but has authority for proactive measures
• Tax compliance is mandatory and actively enforced

Best Practices for Compliance:

• Maintain high standards of cleanliness and upkeep
• Implement clear guest communication regarding quiet hours and house rules
• Provide comprehensive house manual with operational instructions
• Establish reliable emergency response procedures
• Consider professional property management for non-local owners

Source Links

• Blaine Vacation Rentals Resolution
• Land Use Code Enforcement FAQ
• Airbnb Regulation Analysis
• Blaine Market Overview
• County STR Discussion
• Regional STR Commentary

Disclaimer: This guide is based on available information and regulations that may change. Investors should verify current requirements with the City of Blaine Community Development Services Department before making investment decisions. The City assumes no liability for errors or outdated information in this summary.