Overview: Short-Term Rentals Are Permitted
Short-term rentals (STRs) are allowed in Bothell, WA, but operate under state-level regulations (Washington RCW 64.37). The city has no specific STR permitting requirements beyond state law and general business licensing. King County (which partially overlaps Bothell) does not have its own STR regulations.

1. How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business

Step 1: Obtain State-Level Licenses

• Washington State Business License: Register with the Washington Department of Revenue (DOR) and obtain a Unified Business Identifier (UBI).
• City of Bothell Business License: Apply via the DOR portal for a "General Business License" endorsement. (STRs are not classified as "home occupations").

Step 2: Insurance & Tax Setup

• Secure primary liability insurance ($1M+ coverage) or confirm coverage through platforms like Airbnb/Vrbo.
• Set up tax remittance for sales, use, and lodging taxes (often collected/remitted by platforms).

Step 3: Ensure Safety Compliance

• Post required safety information inside the unit (see Regulations section below).
• Install smoke/carbon monoxide detectors per state law.

Step 4: Property Preparation

• Verify zoning compliance (STRs allowed in all residential zones where dwelling units are permitted).
• Prepare guest amenities and listings.

2. Required Documents & Permits

| Requirement | Details | Source | |-------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------| | State Business License | UBI number via DOR | RCW 64.37 | | City of Bothell License | "General Business" endorsement through DOR portal | RedAwning | | Liability Insurance | $1M+ coverage or platform-provided | RCW 64.37.050 | | Tax Registration | Sales/use tax via DOR (platforms may handle this) | RCW 64.37.020 | | Safety Poster | Emergency contacts, exits, max occupancy | RCW 64.37.030 |

3. Regulations Specific to Bothell, County, and State

State Regulations (RCW 64.37)

• Taxes: Remit sales, use, and lodging taxes (often collected by platforms).
• Consumer Safety:
  • Post property address, emergency contacts, fire exit plans, and occupancy limits.
  • Provide 24/7 guest access to a contact person.
• Insurance: Maintain $1M+ liability coverage or use platform-provided coverage.
• Platform Requirements: Platforms (Airbnb/Vrbo) must register with the DOR and collect/remit taxes.

Bothell City Regulations

• Zoning: STRs allowed in all residential zones where dwelling units are permitted (e.g., single-family, multi-family).
• Permits: No city-specific STR permits required beyond business licensing.
• Transient Accommodations: Temporary structures (e.g., tents, cabins) require a Type II permit under BMC 12.06.160, but these rules do not apply to standard STRs.

Snohomish County

• County rules (e.g., Snohomish City Ordinance 2446) apply only to properties within the City of Snohomish (not Bothell). Bothell is a separate jurisdiction.

4. Contact Information

| Authority | Contact Details | Notes | |------------------------------|----------------------------------------------|------------------------------------| | City of Bothell | Website: www.ci.bothell.wa.us | General business licensing questions | | WA Department of Revenue | Phone: 360-534-1600 | UBI number, tax setup | | Bothell Fire Department | Phone: 425-486-6374 | Fire safety inspections |

5. Source Links

• Bothell Municipal Code (BMC 12.06.160): Temporary Uses
• WA State STR Law (RCW 64.37): Short-Term Rentals
• Market Insights: RedAwning STR Overview
• Snohomish City STR Rules (for context only): Snohomish WA STR Regulations

Key Takeaway: Bothell permits STRs under state law, with no city-specific restrictions. Investors must comply with RCW 64.37 (taxes, insurance, safety) and obtain a general business license via the state DOR. For zoning questions, consult the City of Bothell Planning Department.