Can I Airbnb in Olympia, WA? (2026)
Olympia allows short-term rentals citywide in nearly all residential and commercial zones under Ordinance No. 7289 (2021). Owner-occupied 'homestays' need only a business license, while whole-unit 'vacation rentals' require a city Short-Term Rental Permit ($116.42, renewed every two years) and are capped at two vacation rental units per operator. Lodging is taxed at a combined 11.8% (9.8% sales tax plus 2% special hotel/motel tax), generally collected by the booking platform.
What’s required: a Short-Term Rental Permit ($116.42) is required; occupancy taxes apply; renew biennial.
Check a specific address
Rules can vary by zone and parcel. Resolve any Washington street address to its jurisdiction and see the verified rules that apply.
Related
Verified July 21, 2026. Informational only — not legal, tax, or financial advice. Also check HOA/condo rules and your lease, which can prohibit short-term rentals even where the city allows them.