What Exactly Is Considered a Short-Term Rental in Sammamish
As of Sep 12, 2025 the city of Sammamish, Washington has not adopted municipal/county specific regulations relating to short-term rentals. The municipality does allow for short-term rentals to be operated within the city limits. The state of Washington has their own ordinances and regulations for short-term rentals in terms of licensing and taxes.
Washington State STR Definitions and Regulations
- In Washington State, Short-term rental” means a lodging use, that is not a hotel or motel or bed and breakfast, in which a dwelling unit, or portion thereof, is offered or provided to a guest by a short-term rental operator for a fee for fewer than thirty consecutive nights.
- “Short-term rental” does not include any of the following:
- A dwelling unit that is occupied by the owner for at least six months during the calendar year
- Operators are subject to various requirements, including obtaining a business license, complying with local zoning, maintaining primary liability insurance of at least $1 million, and remitting applicable local, state, and federal taxes.
- “Short-term rental” does not include any of the following:
- For hosts in Sammamish you will need to remit taxation to the State of Washington. The state does not impose any personal income tax. Property owners must collect and pay retail sales tax on the rental charges. They also need to pay lodging and convention and trade center taxes, depending on the location of the property. They must pay any Retailing B&O tax due after taking the small business B&O tax credit, if applicable. The credit calculates automatically when you file electronically. Any rental of 30+ days within the state is exempt from a Business & Occupation tax as well as the retail sales tax. Short-term rentals (>30 days) are required to collect and remit a retail sales tax, transient occupancy tax.
- The minimum combined 2025 sales tax rate for Sammamish, Washington is 10.2%. This is the total of state, county, and city sales tax rates. The Washington sales tax rate is currently 6.5%. The Sammamish sales tax rate is 3.7%.
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Why Sammamish is so Exciting for both Guests and Hosts
Sammamish is the perfect destination for travelers seeking a balance of nature, relaxation and accessibility. Situated along beautiful sparkling lakes, lush preserves, and family-friendly parks – the city offers year-round escape that feels both tranquil and connected. Its scenic beauty shifts with the seasons, attracting summer visitors for lake days, autumn travelers for colorful foliage, hiking and mountain biking, and finally winter guests for the amazing skiing and snowshoeing. Guests and visitors can enjoy amazing hiking, fishing and waterfront activities by day, and still be just a short drive from the culture, dining and business hubs of Seattle and Bellevue. This blend of peaceful retreat and urban convenience makes Sammamish an exciting and irresistible destination for families, couples and professionals alike – providing experiences that feel human and one of a kind.
For hosts and property owners, the city is an emerging market full of potential. With no municipal ordinances in place and clear statewide regulations for short and mid term rentals provide hosts with a straightforward and promising path into the market. The limited chain/large hotel availability and growing demand for private, high quality accommodations create easy potential for profitability. From cozy lakefront cottages to upscale homes ideal for guests of all type, size and intention, hosts have access to a market looking for unique and comfortable stays. In Sammamish, every property has the chance to stand out – guests have the chance to experience the authentic Pacific Northwest they are looking for. The city’s blend of tranquility and accessibility ensures a steady draw of visitors year-round, creating a strong local tourism demand and exciting opportunities to create memorable stays for guests.