Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Cusick, WA?
Yes, short-term rentals are explicitly allowed in Cusick, WA, under Pend Oreille County jurisdiction. Chapter XX.70 of the Pend Oreille County Development Regulations governs "Vacation Rental Regulations," confirming that transient lodging rentals (STRs) are a permitted activity within specific zoning districts, subject to County approval and ongoing compliance.

1. How to Start an STR Business

Pend Oreille County requires a Vacation Rental Permit for all STR operations. Follow these steps:

1. Zoning Verification: Confirm your property is in an approved zoning district (see "Regulations" below).
2. Pre-Application Consultation: Optional but recommended. Contact the Community Development Department to discuss requirements, zoning compliance, and permitting timelines.
3. Application Submission: Apply for a Vacation Rental Permit via Class 1 Review (administrative approval). Required documents include:
   • Property deed or ownership verification.
   • Site plan showing the STR location, access, parking, and utilities.
   • Proof of liability insurance.
   • SEPA checklist (if required by the County).
   • Compliance with fire safety, health, and building codes.
4. Review & Approval: The Community Development Director issues administrative decisions within 60–90 days.
5. Renewal: Permits require annual renewal (also a Class 1 action).

2. Required Documents, Permits, Licenses

• Vacation Rental Permit (Primary Requirement): Chapter XX.70.010–XX.70.030.
• Building Permits: Required for structural alterations; Chapter XX.30.010–XX.30.030.
• SEPA Compliance: Environmental review per Chapter XX.14.110–XX.14.120.
• State-Level Licenses:
  • Washington State business registration (Secretary of State).
  • Lodging taxes (transient occupancy tax) – remit quarterly to the Washington State Department of Revenue.
• Zoning Conformance: Ensure compliance with Chapter XX.26.040 (Table of Permitted Uses).

3. Specific Regulations (County & State)

A. Pend Oreille County Zoning (Chapter XX.26.040):

• Permitted STR Locations:
  | Zoning District | STR Status |
  |-----------------------|------------|
  | Rural Residential | Permitted (P) |
  | Rural (5/10/20/40) | Permitted (P) |
  | Natural Resource | Permitted (P) |
  | Commercial/Industrial | Prohibited (X) |

• Rural Overlay (Chapter XX.26.060): Highway 2/20 corridors (including Cusick) may allow additional density but do not supersede base zoning.

• Airport Overlay (Chapter XX.26.070G): Properties near Ione Airport must comply with intensity limits and disclosure requirements.

B. State of Washington Requirements:

• Lodging Taxes: 6.5% state transient lodging tax + local taxes.
• Fair Housing & Safety: Compliance with ADA, fire safety, and health codes.
• Host Registration: No state-level registry, but County permit renewal is mandatory.

C. Operating Standards:

• Occupancy: Governed by building/fire codes.
• Parking: One space per bedroom (County standard).
• Noise/Utilities: Must adhere to Chapter XX.30.010 (Off-Premise Signs) and XX.30.020 (Outdoor Lighting).

4. Contact Information

• Pend Oreille County Community Development Department
  • Phone: (509) 447-7353
  • Email: <planning@pendoreille.gov>
  • Address: 625 W. 4th St., Newport, WA 99156
  • Website: www.pendoreille.gov/Departments/CommunityDevelopment
  • Key Contact: Community Development Director (administers STR permits).

5. Links to Source Pages

• Pend Oreille County Development Regulations (2024):
  https://www.pendoreille.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif14901/files/media/community-development/file/25141/bocc_approved_development_regulations_2024.pdf
  • Referenced Chapters: XX.14 (Processing), XX.26 (Zoning), XX.30 (Standards), XX.70 (Vacation Rentals)

Critical Notes for Investors:

• Zoning Pre-Check: Verify zoning with the County before purchasing property.
• Class 1 Review: Approval is administrative; no public hearings.
• State Taxes: Non-compliance with lodging tax remittance results in penalties.
• Cusick-Specific: Cusick lies within the Highway 20 Corridor overlay (Chapter XX.26.060); confirm alignment with local plans.

This guide synthesizes Pend Oreille County regulations applicable to STRs in Cusick, WA. Always confirm requirements with the Community Development Department prior to operation.