Wednesday night is the last opportunity for citizens to comment before the Pullman Planning Commission about the city’s proposed restrictions on short term rentals like Airbnb’s.
Short term rentals have become a popular side hustle in Pullman especially during Washington State University home football weekends. The Pullman’s Planning Commission has been reviewing the proposed restrictions throughout the year as part of the city’s overall code update.
Currently the City of Pullman requires short term rental operators to obtain a Conditional Use Permit from the Hearing Examiner. There have been only a handful of short term rental permits approved in the City of Pullman.
The new plan calls for short term rental operators to obtain a permit from the city. The initial permit will cost 350 dollars and includes a list of requirements. Operators need to submit a plot plan of their property and a floor plan of the residence. The city must know where short term rentals are being advertised and the permit number for that property must be posted online. Operators must prove that all taxes have been paid for the property and have a business license from the State of Washington. There are proposed restrictions on occupancy and a local representative must live within a half hours drive of Pullman. The listings must have short term rental insurance. Evacuation route signs are required inside the residence along with at least one battery backup emergency exit light. An emergency evacuation plan must be approved by a building official. Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors must be in and outside all sleeping rooms and if the residence has multiple stories those alarms must be interconnected. Short term rental properties will have to be inspected by the city. Neighbors will be informed that the property is being considered for a short term rental permit. Violations of the proposed rules can lead to a penalty or a permit can be revoked.
The Pullman Planning Commission will accept public comment on the proposed restrictions during Wednesday night’s meeting before commissioners make their recommendation to Pullman City Council. City council will make the final decision on the zoning code update and proposed short term rental restrictions. Public comment can also be submitted before Wednesday night’s meeting by emailing ariel.medeiros@pullman-wa.gov
Wednesday night’s planning commission meeting starts at 7:00 in city hall. You can read all of the proposed restrictions below.
