Friday Harbor
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Friday harbor
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STR Regulations for Friday harbor
Short-Term Rental Guide for Friday Harbor, WA
Overview of Short-Term Rentals
Short-term rentals (STRs) are allowed in San Juan County, including Friday Harbor, but with specific restrictions and permit requirements. As of May 2022, the county has implemented a permit cap system.
Permit Limitations
- San Juan Island permit cap: 337 vacation rental permits
- No new vacation rental applications are currently being accepted
- Existing permits remain valid if fully compliant
How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business
Eligibility Requirements
Short-term rentals are NOT allowed in:
- Natural shoreline designation
- Conservancy shoreline designation
- Agricultural Resource land use designation
- Forest Resource land use designation
- Shaw Island
- Waldron Island
- Parcels connected to Friday Harbor water system
Permit Application Process
- Verify property is in an eligible zoning area
- Prepare required documentation:
- Site plan
- Floor plans
- Property management plan
- On-island emergency contact information
Required Documents and Permits
- Vacation Rental Permit
- Uniform Business Identification (UBI) Number
- Certificate of Compliance (annual renewal)
- Rules of Conduct document
Fees
- Conditional Use Permit: $2,300
- Provisional Use Permit: $1,000
- Annual Compliance Certificate: $145 (online), $160 (paper)
Compliance and Regulations
- Annual certification required
- Must include 24-hour emergency contact
- Permit number must be displayed in all advertisements
- Penalty for unpermitted rental: $2,300
Contact Information
San Juan County Department of Community Development
- Address: 135 Rhone Street, Friday Harbor, WA 98250
- Phone: 360-378-2354
- Email: dcd@sanjuancountywa.gov
Useful Resources
- County Vacation Rental Compliance Page: https://www.sanjuancountywa.gov/1836/Vacation-Rental-Compliance-Enforcement
- Online Permit Center: https://co-sanjuan-wa.smartgovcommunity.com/Public/Home
Additional Considerations
- Check homeowner association (HOA) rules
- Obtain appropriate commercial insurance
- Consider professional property management
- Be aware of potential tax implications
Disclaimer
Regulations are subject to change. Always verify current requirements with the San Juan County Department of Community Development.
Photos of Friday harbor
Overview of Friday harbor
Friday Harbor, Washington, is a charming small town located in the San Juan Islands, famed for its scenic beauty and maritime heritage. As the county seat of San Juan County, it has a modest population of around 2,200 residents, offering a tranquil island vibe while being accessible. The town is approximately 90 miles north of Seattle, making it reachable by a combination of ferry, car, and sometimes seaplane services, which can add a layer of adventure to the journey.
Friday Harbor is noted for its picturesque harbor and vibrant downtown area that attracts tourists year-round. Several landmarks and points of interest in the town enhance its appeal for short-term rentals. One such landmark is the San Juan Island National Historical Park (nps.gov/sajh), which offers not only historical insights but also beautiful trails and stunning views of the surrounding waters.
Another key attraction is the The Whale Museum (whalemuseum.org), which provides an engaging experience for visitors interested in marine life and the local ecosystem, particularly the orcas that inhabit the surrounding waters.
Additionally, Lime Kiln Point State Park (parks.state.wa.us/540/Lime-Kiln-Point), often referred to as "Whale Watch Park," is a premier location for orca whale watching from the shore, adding to the island’s allure for nature enthusiasts.
Short-term rentals in Friday Harbor give visitors a unique chance to experience island life while being close to these attractions. The combination of natural beauty, rich history, and local charm makes Friday Harbor an appealing destination for short-term stays.