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

Yes, short-term rentals are currently allowed in Silverdale, Washington. Silverdale is an unincorporated community within Kitsap County, and short-term rentals (defined as rentals of less than 30 consecutive days) can operate in any residential or commercial area in unincorporated Kitsap County, including Silverdale. However, the regulatory landscape is evolving, and Kitsap County is currently developing updated policies and regulations specifically for short-term vacation rentals (STVRs).

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Silverdale

Current Process (as of 2025)

Based on the available information, here's how to currently establish an STR in Silverdale:

1. Verify Zoning Compliance: Ensure your property is located in an area where STRs are permitted (currently any residential or commercial area in unincorporated Kitsap County)

2. Prepare for Potential Future Requirements: While current enforcement is limited, be prepared for:

   • Permit Applications: The county is developing a permitting system
   • Primary Residence Requirements: Future regulations may require the property to be the host's primary residence
   • Safety Inspections: Potential building and safety compliance checks

3. Tax Registration:

   • Register for and collect the required lodging taxes (see tax section below)
   • File quarterly reports with the Washington State Department of Revenue

4. Insurance and Safety:

   • Ensure adequate liability insurance coverage
   • Install smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers
   • Provide emergency contact information

Market Preparation

• Professional Photography: Essential for competitive listings
• Amenity Investment: Properties with outdoor spaces, kayaks, hiking gear, or proximity to local attractions (Clear Creek Trail, Old Mill Park, Naval Undersea Museum) perform better
• Maintenance Planning: Regular maintenance is crucial due to the region's damp climate

Required Documents, Permits, and Licenses

Current Requirements

Limited current enforcement - The Kitsap Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) deferred enforcement except for health/safety related issues until a full review can be completed and new policies developed.

Anticipated Future Requirements (Based on Regulatory Concepts)

While specific requirements are still under development, the following are likely to be required:

Permits and Licensing:

• County STR Permit: Application and approval process
• Business License: Local business registration
• Fire Safety Inspection: Compliance with fire safety standards
• Zoning Compliance Certificate: Verification that the property meets zoning requirements

Documentation Requirements:

• Property Ownership Verification: Proof of ownership or rental agreement
• Host Contact Information: 24/7 contact availability during rental periods
• Emergency Procedures: Posted safety and emergency contact information
• House Rules: Clear occupancy limits, noise restrictions, and behavioral expectations

Insurance Requirements:

• Liability Insurance: Minimum coverage amounts to be determined
• Property Insurance: Adequate coverage for rental operations

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

Current Status

• Deferred Enforcement: Current enforcement is limited to health/safety issues only
• Existing Code: A vacation rental code was adopted in 2016 requiring conditional use permitting, but enforcement was deferred due to being overly broad and burdensome

Anticipated Future Regulations (Under Development)

Based on Community Input and Regulatory Concepts:

Operational Limits:

• Occupancy Limits: Maximum number of guests per unit (specific limits TBD)
• Parking Requirements: Specific on-site parking provisions
• Noise Restrictions: Quiet hours and noise level controls
• Length of Stay: Properties rented for less than 30 consecutive days

Host Requirements:

• Primary Residence: Some regulatory concepts suggest STRs must be the host's primary residence
• 24/7 Availability: Host or responsible party must be available during rental periods
• Registration: Mandatory registration and licensing with the county

Prohibited Activities:

• Party Houses: Restrictions on events and large gatherings
• Unlicensed Operations: Operating without proper permits and licenses

State-Level Regulations (Washington State)

Washington State House Bill 1798: Recently passed state legislation that provides the framework for local STR regulations. This bill:

• Establishes baseline requirements for short-term rental operations
• Provides guidance for local governments in developing their own ordinances
• Addresses safety, registration, and consumer protection standards

Contact Information for Local Authority

Kitsap County Short-Term Rental Project Contacts

Policy Management:

• Eric Baker, Policy Manager

  • Phone: (360) 337-4495
  • Email: ebaker@co.kitsap.wa.us

• Jennifer Cannon, Policy Analyst

  • Phone: (360) 337-7051
  • Email: jjcannon@co.kitsap.wa.us

General Project Information:

• Project Helpline: (360) 337-5777
• Email: help@kitsap1.com
• Mailing Address: Kitsap County Board of Commissioners 619 Division Street Port Orchard, WA 98366

Online Resources:

• Project Webpage: https://www.kitsap.gov/BOC_p/Pages/STR.aspx
• Email Notifications: Sign up at https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/WAKITSAP/subscriber/new

Washington State Resources

Washington State Department of Revenue (Lodging Tax):

• Website: https://dor.wa.gov/find-taxes-rates/other-taxes/special-hotelmotel-tax
• Phone: (360) 902-8888
• Email: Tax questions available through their website contact form

Tax Requirements

Lodging Tax Obligations

Kitsap County requires two lodging taxes:

1. Washington State Lodging Tax: 2% to fulfill Washington State Department of Revenue requirements
2. Kitsap County Special Excise Tax: Additional 2% for Kitsap County

Total Lodging Tax Rate: 4% on all lodging charges for periods of less than 30 consecutive days

Registration and Filing:

• Register with Washington State Department of Revenue
• Collect 4% lodging tax from guests
• File quarterly reports and remittances
• Maintain records of all transactions

Additional Tax Considerations:

• Short-term rentals are subject to standard sales tax requirements
• Consider federal income tax obligations for rental income
• Professional tax consultation recommended

Source Links

Official Kitsap County Resources:

1. Main STR Project Page: https://www.kitsap.gov/BOC_p/Pages/STR.aspx
2. Survey Results Summary: https://www.kitsap.gov/BOC_p/Policy%20Documents/2STR%20Outreach-Survey%20Summary%20June19.pdf
3. Regulatory Concepts: https://www.kitsap.gov/BOC_p/Policy%20Documents/STR%20Reg%20Concepts%20June%2017_2019.pdf
4. Public Comments: https://www.kitsap.gov/BOC_p/Policy%20Documents/Attachments_PublicCommentSTVR_Jan-Ju12_19.pdf

State-Level Resources: 5. Washington State HB 1798: [http://lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov/biennium/2019-20/Pdf/Bills/House Passed Legislature/1798-S.PL.pdf](http://lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov/biennium/2019-20/Pdf/Bills/House Passed Legislature/1798-S.PL.pdf) 6. WA State Lodging Tax Info: https://dor.wa.gov/find-taxes-rates/other-taxes/special-hotelmotel-tax

Additional References: 7. MRSC STR Best Practices: http://mrsc.org/Home/Stay-Informed/MRSC-Insight/February-2016/Local-Government-Catching-Up-with-Airbnb.aspx

Note: While this guide is current as of the information provided, the regulatory landscape for short-term rentals in Silverdale/Kitsap County is actively evolving. Investors should regularly check the Kitsap County STR project page for updates and participate in the public engagement process to stay informed of regulatory changes.