Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Hoquiam, WA?

YES, short-term rentals are allowed in Hoquiam, WA, but with important caveats. Short-term rentals are permitted within Hoquiam city limits and throughout Grays Harbor County, but they require proper licensing and must comply with local zoning regulations. The regulatory framework operates at two levels: county-level regulations apply to unincorporated areas, while city-level business licensing requirements apply within Hoquiam's incorporated limits.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Hoquiam Market

Step 1: Verify Zoning Compliance

Before proceeding, confirm your property's zoning designation. Short-term rentals are permitted in the following zoning districts:

County-Level (Unincorporated Grays Harbor):

• General Development One (G-1)
• General Development Five (G-5)
• General Residential (R-2)
• Resort Residential (R-3)
• Rural Residential (RR)
• Lake Quinault (LQ)
• General Commercial (C-2)

Property Zoning Verification: Use the online Parcel Search tool to determine your property's zoning designation.

Step 2: Site Plan Review Application (County Requirements)

If operating in unincorporated Grays Harbor County, complete the Site Plan Review Application. This step is mandatory before STR applications will be accepted.

Step 3: Address Related Permits and Approvals

Complete any additional requirements identified in Step 1. The Planning Division will notify you when your project is ready to proceed to Step 4.

Step 4: Obtain Short-Term Rental Permit

Submit the Short Term Rental Permit Application for staff review. Applications are reviewed for compliance with applicable state and local health, safety, and building regulations.

Step 5: City Business Licensing (Within Hoquiam City Limits)

Within Hoquiam city limits, you must obtain a business license as defined under HMC 4.05.010. This includes:

• Rental of three or more residential rental units
• Any number of commercial or industrial rental units

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

County-Level Requirements (Unincorporated Areas):

1. Site Plan Review Application
2. Short Term Rental Permit Application (annually renewed)
3. Short Term Rental Submittal Checklist
4. Floor Plans (example provided)
5. Property Management Information (example provided)

City-Level Requirements (Within Hoquiam):

1. Business License under HMC Title 4, Chapter 4.05
2. Business License Application with applicable fees
3. Compliance with Building Codes and safety regulations

Safety and Emergency Preparedness:

• FEMA V-1011/May 2018 - Be Prepared for a Tsunami guidelines
• Tsunami Evacuation Maps and procedures
• Emergency Management contact information

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

County-Level Regulations (Grays Harbor County):

• Permit Renewal: STR permits must be reapplied for and renewed annually at least 30 calendar days prior to expiration
• Grandfathered Properties: STRs approved with Conditional Use Permits or as part of Planned Unit Developments under Title 17 prior to March 22, 2022, do not require STR permits
• Zoning Compliance: Must operate only in permitted zoning districts listed above
• Contact Reporting: Report concerns to 360-227-5030

City-Level Regulations (Hoquiam):

• Business License Required: Anyone engaging in business within city limits must register and obtain a business license
• Rental Unit Definition: Covers dwelling units rented to persons who reside within the same household or commercial spaces rented to single business entities
• Zoning Compliance: Must comply with local zoning ordinances as amended in Ordinance 2014-07

Important Note on Residency Requirements:

While some forum discussions mention residency requirements, no explicit residency requirement was found in the official municipal code or county ordinances reviewed. However, always verify current regulations with local authorities before making investment decisions.

Contact Information for Local Authority

Grays Harbor County Planning Division

• Phone: Contact through main office during business hours
• Business Hours: Monday - Friday, 9:00 AM - Noon, 1:00 PM - 4:30 PM
• Address: 100 W Broadway, Montesano, WA 98563
• Website: Planning Division
• Online Portal: Apply for Permits

Hoquiam City Licensing

• Website: City of Hoquiam
• Municipal Code: Available at hoquiam.municipal.codes

Concern Reporting

• Phone: 360-227-5030
• Online: Report Concerns

Links to Source Pages

1. Grays Harbor County Short-Term Rental Information
2. Hoquiam Municipal Code - Business License Definitions
3. Hoquiam Municipal Code - Public Nuisances
4. Grays Harbor County Code - Short-term rentals
5. Property Zoning Verification Tool
6. Permit Application Portal
7. Hoquiam Zoning Ordinance 2014-07

Investment Considerations

Market Opportunity

Grays Harbor County, including Hoquiam, represents an emerging market for short-term rentals due to:

• Proximity to Olympic National Forest
• Natural attractions and outdoor recreation opportunities
• Current economic conditions creating potential for tourism development
• Lower competition compared to established STR markets

Compliance Strategy

1. Always verify current zoning before purchasing property
2. Contact Planning Division early in your investment process
3. Plan for annual permit renewals and associated costs
4. Ensure emergency preparedness for tsunami and other local hazards
5. Maintain consistent communication with local authorities

Recommended First Steps

1. Consult with a Permit Coordinator
2. Complete zoning verification using the online tool
3. Review the Short Term Rental Submittal Checklist thoroughly
4. Consider engaging with local real estate professionals familiar with county regulations

This guide provides the foundation for compliant short-term rental operations in Hoquiam and Grays Harbor County. Given the evolving nature of short-term rental regulations, maintaining direct contact with local authorities is essential for long-term success.