• Current Rule: You need a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) to run a legal short-term rental in Pullman. Very few people have this—think of it as the velvet-rope VIP of local real estate.
  
  
• Proposed Change: A new, more streamlined STR permit process to replace the old CUP system.
  
  
• Who Can Host: STRs would be allowed in dwellings up to duplex size only. That’s right—triplex owners, this ain't your party.
  
  
• What You Need:
  
  
  
  • Business license
    
    
  • Approved emergency evacuation plan
    
    
  • Lighted emergency exit sign
    
    
  • Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
    
    
  • Inspection by a city building official
    
    
• Duration: Permits will be annual.
  
  
• Marketing Rule: Any STR listing—yes, even that cute cabin you posted on Facebook—must have a valid permit number in the ad.
  
  

This new system is part of a larger update to Pullman’s zoning code, which is expected to be finalized by May 13th. Mark your calendars or risk missing the boat.

Let’s Talk Context: Why the Change Now?

Pullman’s been watching the rise of short-term rentals like the rest of the world—and like many other cities, it’s grappling with how to balance housing supply, safety, and local control.

STRs can boost tourism, offer income opportunities, and add vibrancy to neighborhoods. But they also raise real concerns:

• Housing affordability (investors outbidding locals for homes)
  
  
• Neighborhood disruptions (hello, bachelorette parties)
  
  
• Safety standards (spoiler alert: not everyone installs carbon monoxide detectors)
  
  

Cities like Seattle, Portland, and Spokane have all implemented some form of STR regulation—and Pullman, albeit fashionably late, is now catching up.

What Does This Mean for Hosts & Investors?

Here’s how Pullman’s new rules could impact your side hustle:

You’re In Luck If:

• You own a single-family home or duplex in Pullman.
  
  
• You’re willing to go through the permit process.
  
  
• You already have or can install required safety features.
  
  

You’re Out of Luck If:

• You rent out a triplex or larger building.
  
  
• You’re running an unpermitted STR and hoped the city wouldn’t notice.
  
  
• You dislike the idea of a fire inspection in your living room.
  
  

Compliance Checklist (Save this):

1. Apply for your business license with the City of Pullman.
   
   
2. Draft an emergency evacuation plan and get it approved.
   
   
3. Install a lighted emergency exit sign—yes, it needs to be official.
   
   
4. Make sure your smoke and CO detectors are working and up to code.
   
   
5. Pass an inspection by a city building official.
   
   
6. Submit a STR permit application annually.
   
   
7. Add your permit number to all listings and ads.
   
   

Common Questions We’re Already Hearing

“Do I need a separate license for each property?”
Yes. Each STR needs its own permit.

“What if I only rent it out a few weekends a year?”
Doesn’t matter. The rule applies to all short-term rentals regardless of frequency.

“Can I use my basement apartment as an STR?”
Only if the whole property is considered a single-family or duplex unit and meets zoning requirements.

“How much does the permit cost?”
Not finalized yet—but assume fees for the application, inspections, and possibly renewals.

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SEO Bonus: How to Register Your Short-Term Rental in Pullman

• Airbnb tax rules in Pullman, WA
  
  
• Vacation rental license process in Whitman County
  
  
• Local STR rules for Pullman Airbnb hosts
  
  
• Compliance steps for short-term rental owners in Washington State
  
  
• Property investment legalities for Airbnb in Pullman
  
  

Don’t Go It Alone – Let Lodge Compliance Handle the Heavy Lifting

Navigating local STR laws can be confusing and time-consuming. One wrong move and you could face steep fines, delisting, or even legal action.

That’s where we come in.

Lodge Compliance Offers:

• STR permit application support
  
  
• Tax registration, filing, and remittance
  
  
• Inspection coordination
  
  
• Ongoing compliance monitoring
  
  
• Automatic updates on changing local rules
  
  

Don’t let new laws kill your cash flow. We’ll keep your short-term rental legal, profitable, and totally stress-free.

Final Word: Get Ready, Pullman Hosts!

With the City Council’s final vote coming May 13, it’s time to prepare. Don’t wait for the city to knock on your door—get ahead of the game and let Lodge Compliance help you stay compliant.

Need help? Contact us today to make your Pullman short-term rental 100% legal and fully optimized.

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