Short-Term Rental Guide for Ferndale, WA

Overview: Whether Short-Term Rentals Are Allowed

Important Clarification: The provided content contains significant confusion between Ferndale, Michigan and Ferndale, Washington. Only one source specifically addresses Ferndale, WA STR regulations. The available information suggests that short-term rentals are subject to restrictive regulations in Ferndale, WA.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Ferndale, WA

Based on the limited Ferndale, WA-specific content provided:

Key Limitation Identified: The Accessory Dwelling Unit regulations specifically state that "Principal dwelling units and accessory dwelling units shall not be used as short-term rentals concurrently" (Ferndale Municipal Code 18.34.020.I). This indicates significant restrictions on STR operations in the city.

For ADU owners considering STR use:

• You must choose either to use the principal dwelling OR the ADU as an STR
• Both cannot operate as STRs simultaneously
• This restriction applies to all residential single-family zones (RS low, RS medium, and RS high)

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

ADU Registration Requirements (if applicable):

• Application for ADU permit with the Community Development Department
• Compliance with Chapter 14.07 FMC (development standards)
• Declaration of restrictions filed with Whatcom County Auditor
• Property inspection prior to approval
• Covenant specifying registration requirements

State-Level Requirements (Washington State):

• Business license through Washington State Department of Revenue
• Compliance with state landlord-tenant laws for any rental use

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

City-Level Regulations (Ferndale, WA):

• Primary Restriction: Cannot operate both principal dwelling and ADU as STRs concurrently
• Zoning: STRs permitted only in residential single-family zones that allow single-family homes
• Size Limits: ADUs limited to maximum 1,000 square feet (though larger attached ADUs may be permitted in existing structures)
• Density: Maximum 2 ADUs per lot as accessory use to single-family home

County-Level Regulations (Whatcom County):

• Must comply with Whatcom County ADU standards (WCC 20.97.010, 20.80.910)
• Subject to critical area regulations for properties over 4.5 acres

State-Level Regulations (Washington State):

• State guidance on ADUs under HB 1337 (2023) provides framework for local regulations
• Must comply with RCW 36.70A.680, 681 and 696 regarding ADU requirements

Limitations and Enforcement

Restrictions Identified:

• The concurrent STR ban between principal dwelling and ADU significantly limits STR business opportunities
• Violations of ADU provisions are considered violations under Chapter 1.12 FMC
• Recording requirements and deed restrictions apply to ADU properties

Contact Information

Ferndale, WA - Community Development Department:

• Phone: Contact through Ferndale City Hall at 360-384-4006
• Address: 5694 2nd Avenue, Ferndale, WA 98248
• Email: Community Development Department
• Website: www.cityofferndale.org/

Whatcom County Resources:

• Whatcom County Planning and Development Services
• Additional contact information available through county website

Links to Source Pages

Ferndale, WA Specific Sources:

• Ferndale Municipal Code - ADU Regulations
• City of Ferndale Website

State-Level Resources:

• Washington State ADU Guidance Document

Regional Context:

• Bellingham STR Regulations (for comparison)

Important Disclaimers

1. Limited Local STR Information: The provided content contains minimal information specifically about Ferndale, WA short-term rental regulations beyond ADU restrictions.

2. Conflicting Jurisdictions: Some provided content addresses Ferndale, Michigan rather than Washington state.

3. Regulatory Changes: State-level changes under HB 1337 may impact local regulations; verify current requirements with local authorities.

4. Recommendation: Contact the Ferndale Community Development Department directly for the most current and comprehensive STR regulations, as the available content may not reflect all applicable requirements.

Final Note: The significant restriction on concurrent STR operations between principal dwellings and ADUs in Ferndale, WA creates a limited environment for STR businesses. Investors should thoroughly investigate all applicable regulations before proceeding with any STR venture in Ferndale, WA.