Do I need a WA State Biz license for my Airbnb in Lewis County, WA?

[Shelly335]

I'm getting mixed information on this subject.  Please advise.

[Rebecca]

Hello @Shelly335 👋

It's great to meet you! I found this thread on laws and regulations in Washington on the Community Center and I'd like to tag some hosts here that might be able to support or offer the best advice regarding a business license: @Shannon1015, @Joan2709, @Bob1314, @Lorina14 and @Kitty-and-Creek0 🤗 I hope you don't mind the tag here. I'm looking forward to read what you share.

[Kitty-and-Creek0]

@Shelly335 

The best information is usually to be found at your county office. They have all the current County regulations, and will help you set it all up. These regs can change, and often do. What is online could be outdated, so an in- person visit is the best way. My county has an ordinance quite different from others in the state and the other counties which have their own, based on the particular nature of the area. Getting you set up and pointed in the right direction is their job, they want you to succeed, so go for it and enjoy!. 

[Joan2709]

@Shelly335 

As @Kitty-and-Creek0 mentions, Yes you will need a business license in Washington in order to pay the business and occupation tax (B&O tax) to the state. 

State of Washington - DOR

https://dor.wa.gov/education/industry-guides/lodging-guide/online-marketplaces-and-property-managers

Looks like Packwood/Lewis County has restrictions/regulations for STRs and the county may also require a business property tax for the items (furnishings, etc) used in the Airbnb. 

https://lewiscountywa.gov/media/documents/2022-02-22_PackwoodFAQ_Updated.pdf

[Kitty-and-Creek0]

@Joan2709 @Shelly335 

Excellent information for a start! This is dated Feb 2022, so perhaps changes have been made that could be important. Our county is in active process of reviewing the changes made 2 years ago, and those from 3 years before that. I am involved with attending these meetings.  It is our job as business owners, and to comply with platform terms of service,  by keeping up with these things.