Understanding the short-term rental (STR) rules in Island County & Coupeville
Navigating the World of STRs in Island County, WA
Thinking about running a short-term rental in Island County, Washington? Between state law and local rules, it can feel like a maze. This guide breaks down the state-wide requirements, what’s currently happening in unincorporated Island County, and the town of Coupeville’s stricter licensing system.
First Things First: State-Wide Requirements
Every STR in Washington must comply with RCW 64.37, which sets baseline requirements:
| Requirement | What It Means | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Liability Insurance | At least $1M aggregate coverage (or use a platform like Airbnb/VRBO that provides it) | RCW 64.37.050 |
| Business License (UBI) | Must maintain a valid WA State business license | RCW 64.37.020 |
| Safety & Posting | Post contact info, occupancy limits, emergency exits, and install CO alarms | RCW 64.37.030 |
| Defined Stay | STR = <30 nights; longer stays are not regulated as STRs | RCW 64.37.010 |
Quick Look: County vs. Town Rules
Island County’s approach is still evolving, while Coupeville has a full STR licensing program in place.
| Feature | Island County (Unincorporated) | Coupeville (Town) |
|---|---|---|
| Regulation | No countywide STR code yet (drafts have been discussed) | Annual STR license required |
| Zoning | Must check parcel zoning via Planning Dept. | Allowed in commercial zones; mostly prohibited in residential |
| Application | General Land Use Permit; septic review may apply | $100 license fee + site plan, floor plan, inspections |
| Guest Limits | Not codified yet (likely tied to septic capacity in future) | Must specify in application |
| Parking | Based on zoning requirements | 1 off-street space per guest room |
| Advertising | TBD (once county rules are adopted) | Must include STR license number |
| Enforcement | Pending ordinance | Violations = fines or loss of license |
Deep Dive: Island County (Unincorporated Areas)
Island County is home to Whidbey and Camano Islands, where demand for STRs is strong. Right now:
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No specific STR ordinance yet → County relies on zoning and land-use permits.
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Planning & Land Use Permits → Hosts may need to schedule a “submittal appointment” with Planning & Community Development (Island County Permits).
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Health & Septic → STRs on septic systems may require Environmental Health review.
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Pending Changes → Local hearings and news reports show draft rules are under consideration, especially in Freeland and South Whidbey (South Whidbey Record).
Key Takeaway: Be cautious, Island County may adopt stricter rules soon, and operators should plan for guest limits tied to septic capacity and neighbor notification requirements.
Deep Dive: Coupeville
Coupeville takes a more structured approach to STRs.
The Rules:
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Allowed in commercial zones (HLC, TC, GC).
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Residential zones: mostly prohibited unless legally established before Dec 1, 2019.
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Requires annual Short-Term Rental License (non-transferable).
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Must pass a fire inspection or life-safety self-assessment.
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$100 application + renewal fee.
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Parking: 1 off-street space per guest room.
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All advertisements must include license number.
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Condo/HOA units require association approval.
📑 Reference: Coupeville STR Application
Step-by-Step Checklist for Hosts
If you’re operating in Island County:
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Check zoning on your parcel.
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Contact Island County Planning & schedule a permit appointment.
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Review septic and health requirements.
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Install required safety devices (CO/smoke alarms).
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Maintain your WA business license & collect taxes.
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Watch for ordinance changes, they may add registration or neighbor notice rules.
If you’re operating in Coupeville:
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Apply for STR License annually ($100).
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Provide site/floor plans, parking plan, waste service proof.
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Pass fire inspection or submit safety self-assessment.
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Follow zoning: STRs only in approved commercial areas.
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List license number on all ads.
Final Thoughts
Island County is still in flux on STR regulation. If you’re hosting outside of towns, you’ll need to work closely with Planning and be ready for new rules. In Coupeville, the system is already established, clear, but also stricter.
Disclaimer: Always confirm with the Planning Department before listing, and set guest expectations conservatively. STR rules across Washington are tightening, and proactive compliance is the best way to protect your investment.
