Overview: Are STRs Allowed in Manson?

Short-term rentals are explicitly allowed in Manson, WA, subject to Chelan County regulations. As of 2025, STRs operate under a tiered system with caps, specific location requirements, and operational standards. Manson's STR framework is governed by Chelan County Code Chapter 11.88, with unique provisions for this Urban Growth Area (UGA). Key allowances include:

• Maximum STR Share: STRs cannot exceed 6% of the total housing stock in Manson's residential zones
• Tiered System: Three categories (Tier 1, Tier 2, Tier 3) based on occupancy and ownership
• Zoning Compliance: Must align with Manson's UGA zoning maps
• Existing Non-Conforming Rights: Pre-2021 STRs may retain legal status with compliance conditions

Starting an STR Business in Manson

1. Zoning Verification
   Confirm STR use is permitted at your property location via:

   • Chelan County Zoning Maps
   • Direct consultation with Chelan County Community Development

2. Select STR Tier
   | Tier Type | Owner Occupancy | Max Overnight Guests | Max Daytime Guests |
   |---|---|---|---|
   | Tier 1 | Required | 8 | 8 (excluding owner) |
   | Tier 2 | Not required | 12 | 12 |
   | Tier 3 | Optional | 16 | 16 (excluding owner) |

3. Lot Requirements
   Verify minimum lot size:

   • Tier 2: 5 acres in RR5 zones
   • Tier 3: 10 acres in RR10/RR20 zones
     No STRs allowed in AC10 or parcels under 0.275 acres

4. Application Process
   Apply within annual windows (June 1–July 31) unless applying as Tier 1:

   • New Permits: Submitted during annual application period
   • Existing Non-Conforming: Register by Dec 31, 2021 (deadline passed)

Required Documents, Permits & Licenses

1. Primary Permits

   • Short-Term Rental Land Use Permit: Annual renewal required
   • Conditional Use Permit (CUP): Required for Tier 3 or events exceeding occupancy limits

2. Core Documents

   • Valid government-issued ID
   • Property deed/title
   • Liability Insurance: $1M minimum (RCW 64.37.050)
   • Property Management Plan: Including fire safety protocols
   • Fire Inspection Certificate: Every other year via Fire Marshal

3. Compliance Documentation

   • Proof of wastewater/septic compliance (Chelan-Douglas Health District)
   • Good Neighbor Guidelines acknowledgment
   • State UBI number (for tax reporting)

4. Permit Fees
   | Permit Type | Annual Fee |
   |---|---|
   | Tier 1 | $600 |
   | Tier 2 | $600 |
   | Tier 3 | $900 |
   | Late Renewal | 2x–3x fee (after Nov 1) |

STR Regulations: Manson, County & State

1. Manson-Specific Rules

   • Separation: Tier 2 STRs must be 200ft+ apart
   • Existing Non-Conforming: Must document vacation rental registration as of Aug 25, 2020
   • Transfer Limits: Permit transfers allowed only once within 3 years of Sept 27, 2021

2. Operational Standards

   • Occupancy: 2 guests/bedroom (children count)
   • Parking: Per Chelan County Code 11.90.060 (residential standards apply)
   • Signs: 8 sq ft max with permit number & local contact (4-inch letters)
   • Emergency Phone: Landline/VOIP required (registered with Rivercom)

3. Prohibited Activities

   • RVs, tents, or mobile units as STRs
   • Operating without valid permit
   • Exceeding daytime/occupancy limits without CUP
   • Hosting events violating CUP conditions

4. State Regulations

   • RCW 64.37: Short-Term Rental statutes (insurance, consumer safety)
   • Hotel/Motel Tax: Required via WA Dept. of Revenue

Local Contacts & Resources

Primary Authority: Chelan County Community Development

• Phone: (509) 667-6225
• Email: communitydevelopment@co.chelan.wa.us
• Website: Chelan County STR Page
• GIS STR Map: View Active Permits

Complaint Reporting:

• Deckard STR Complaints: Online Portal
• Phone: (509) 293-4577

Code Enforcement: Chelan County Sheriff’s Office

• Website: Report Violations

Source Links

1. Chelan County STR Regulations (Full 2025 Code)
2. 2025 STR Code Changes Summary
3. Final STR Code (Adopted 2021)
4. Chelan County Code (Title 11 Land Use)
5. City of Chelan STR License (For Reference Only)
6. STR Compliance Guide (Guy Evans Real Estate Blog)

Critical Notes for Investors:

• Manson STRs must comply with all Chelan County codes (Title 11 for land use, Title 16 for enforcement)
• Operating without a permit after Dec 31, 2022, violates county code
• Properties violating UGA zoning may lose non-conforming status
• Annual permit renewals must be submitted Sept 1–Oct 31 to avoid late fees
• STR caps are strictly enforced per housing stock calculations

Consult Chelan County Community Development before purchasing property for STR use, particularly regarding non-conforming status and permit eligibility.