Rockaway Beach, Oregon
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Rockaway Beach, OR
Challenging To Investors
Local STR Agent
STR Regulations for Rockaway Beach, Oregon
Executive Overview: STR Status in Rockaway Beach
Short-term rentals ARE ALLOWED in Rockaway Beach, Oregon, but operate under a highly regulated, capped licensing system. The city has implemented strict limitations on the total number of STR licenses available, requiring investors to navigate both city and county regulations. Rockaway Beach operates a quota-based system where only approved applicants may proceed with licensing, creating a competitive market for new entrants.
Starting a Short-Term Rental Business in Rockaway Beach
Market Entry Process
- Determine Eligibility: Confirm your property location within Rockaway Beach city limits
- Join the Waiting List: Submit a STR New License Waiting List Application due to the city's licensing cap
- Await Approval: Only approved applicants may proceed with full licensing
- Complete Registration: Use the STR Online Portal for license application and payment
- Obtain Required Inspections: County fire and safety inspections required
- Register for Transient Room Tax: City and county tax registration
Critical Timeline Considerations
- License Renewal Deadline: July 31st annually (for existing licenses)
- Transient Room Tax Due Dates: Quarterly (April 30, July 30, October 30, January 30)
- Application Processing: Times vary based on city cap availability
Required Documents, Permits, and Licenses
City of Rockaway Beach Requirements
Primary Licenses:
- STR License (New): $500.00
- STR License (Renewal): $500.00
- STR License (Transfer): $500.00
- STR Under Construction Application: $95.00
- STR Waiting List Application: $95.00
Required Documentation for License Application:
- Image of house/address identifier visible from street
- Image of required identification sign posted on property (visible from street)
- Close-up image of identification sign including:
- STR license number (leave blank if new application)
- Email address for owner/local agent
- Contact telephone number for owner/local agent
- Parking plan diagram showing required off-street parking spaces and locations
- Statement of liability insurance coverage from insurance company
Tillamook County Requirements
Additional County Documentation:
- Short Term Rental Application
- STR Fire & Life Safety Checklist
- STR Hold Harmless Agreement
- Transient Lodging Tax Registration Form
- Short Term Rental Parking Verification Application
- Floor plan with dimensions
- Site plan with dimensions
- Proof of insurance meeting county standards
Specific Regulations
City of Rockaway Beach STR Regulations
Licensing Cap:
- Resolution 2024-08 establishes a cap on the number of STR licenses
- New licenses only available when city approves proceeding with applications
- Waiting list system in place for new applications
Local Agent Requirements:
- Required Local Agent (owner or property management company) must respond within 30 minutes to complaints
- Agent contact information must be posted on property identification sign
- 24/7 availability expected for complaint response
Complaint Management System:
- 24/7 STR Complaint Hotline: (971) 351-0529
- Online complaint portal available
- Required Local Agent must respond within 30 minutes via text message
- Automated callback system after 60 minutes to verify resolution
- Escalation to sheriff's office if issues remain unresolved
Transient Room Tax (TRT):
- Quarterly payment schedule:
- Q1 (Jan-Mar): Due April 30th
- Q2 (Apr-Jun): Due July 30th
- Q3 (Jul-Sep): Due October 30th
- Q4 (Oct-Dec): Due January 30th
County-Level Regulations (Tillamook County)
Inspection Requirements:
- STR Inspection Line: 503-842-1815
- Fire & Life Safety inspections required
- Regular compliance monitoring
- Alteration permits required for property changes
Subarea Restrictions:
- Rockaway Beach UGB waitlist exists
- Subarea maps identify permitted zones
- County Ordinance #86 governs operator license fees
Safety and Compliance:
- Fire & Life Safety Checklist compliance required
- Egress requirements per county standards
- Handrail and guardrail specifications
- Smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector requirements
Tax Obligations:
- Transient Lodging Tax (TLT) registration required
- Separate registration from city TRT requirements
- Quarterly filing and payment obligations
Contact Information
City of Rockaway Beach (Primary Jurisdiction)
City Hall:
- Address: P.O. Box 5 | 276 Hwy 101 S., Rockaway Beach, OR 97136
- Phone: 503-374-1752
- Fax: 503-374-0601
- Email: cityhall@corb.us
STR-Specific Contacts:
- 24/7 STR Complaint Hotline: (971) 351-0529
- STR Online Portal: rockawaybeachcityor-self.govplatform.com
- Community Development Department
Tillamook County (Secondary Jurisdiction)
Community Development Department:
- Address: 1510-B Third Street, Tillamook, OR 97141
- Phone: 503-842-3408
- Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
STR Program Contacts:
- Program Inquiries: 503-842-3408 x3315
- Inspection Line: 503-842-1815
- Non-Emergency Hotline: 503-850-0402
- Online Complaint Portal: secure.hostcompliance.com/tillamook-county-or
Key Staff:
- Paige Nearman, Permit Technician: 503-842-3408 ext 3122
- Lynn Tone, Accounting Technician: 503-842-3408 ext 3315
Source Documentation
Primary Source Documents:
City of Rockaway Beach:
- STR Waiting List Application: corb.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/STR-New-License-Waiting-List-Application-1.pdf
- STR Registration How-To Guide: corb.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/STR-Registations-How-To-Guide-web.pdf
- Resolution 2024-08 (Cap on STRs): corb.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Resolution-2024-08-Establishing-Cap-on-STR-Licenses.pdf
- City Code Chapter 113: codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/rockawaybeach/latest/rockaway_or/0-0-0-6000
- City Code Chapter 34 (Transient Room Tax): codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/rockawaybeach/latest/rockaway_or/0-0-0-4152
- STR Online Complaint Form: secure.hostcompliance.com/rockaway-beach-or/complaints/type
Tillamook County:
- STR New License Application: www.tillamookcounty.gov/sites/default/files/fileattachments/community_development/page/3481/new_applicationss.pdf
- Fire & Life Safety Form: www.tillamookcounty.gov/sites/default/files/fileattachments/community_development/page/86167/fire_life_safety_form_002.pdf
- Transient Lodging Tax Registration: www.tillamookcounty.gov/sites/default/files/fileattachments/community_development/page/3381/tlt_registration_form.pdf
- Ordinance 84 Amendment 2: www.tillamookcounty.gov/sites/default/files/fileattachments/community_development/page/3471/adoptedordinance_84_amendment_2.pdf
- STR Online Registry: www.tillamookcounty.gov/sites/default/files/fileattachments/community_development/page/85655/9.23.25.pdf
Additional Resources:
- STR FAQ: corb.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/General-STR-FAQs.pdf
- How to Pay Transient Room Tax: corb.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/TRT-Info-for-Website-April.2025.pdf
- County Online Payment Portal: aca-oregon.accela.com/oregon/Cap/CapHome.aspx?module=Licensing
This guide represents current regulations as of 2025. Investors should verify current requirements and fees before proceeding, as regulations and fees are subject to change. The dual jurisdiction structure (city and county) requires compliance with both sets of regulations for successful STR operations in Rockaway Beach.
Rockaway Beach
Market Saturation Score
Photos of Rockaway Beach
Overview of Rockaway Beach
Rockaway Beach is a small coastal city located in Tillamook County, Oregon. With a population of approximately 1,300 residents, it offers a quaint, tight-knit community atmosphere. The city is situated about 90 miles west of Portland, Oregon's largest city, making it a relatively short drive for those seeking a coastal escape.
Rockaway Beach is renowned for its stunning seven-mile stretch of sandy beaches and panoramic ocean views. The city's natural beauty and tranquil environment make it an appealing destination for short-term rentals. Specific landmarks that elevate its appeal include the iconic Twin Rocks, which can be viewed from various points along the beach. More information about Twin Rocks can be found here.
Another notable landmark is the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad, which offers scenic rides between Garibaldi and Rockaway Beach, providing a unique and historical experience for visitors. Details about the train rides can be accessed here.
The proximity of other attractions, such as the Tillamook Creamery, located about 15 miles away, also adds to the city's appeal. Tourists often visit the creamery to explore the cheese-making process and enjoy tasty samples. To learn more, visit their official site here.
With its serene beachfront setting, local attractions, and close proximity to both outdoor activities and urban amenities, Rockaway Beach, OR, stands out as a prime location for short-term rental opportunities.
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