Seattle vs Sedona
Washington Legal with Permit | Arizona Legal with Permit
Disclaimer: General information only — not legal advice. Verify with your local government.
| Requirement | Seattle, Washington | Sedona, Arizona |
|---|---|---|
| Legality Status | Legal with Permit | Legal with Permit |
| Permit Fee | $75/year short-term rental operator license | $210/year |
| Tax Rate | 15.6% combined lodging tax (state + county + city) | 13.3%–13.9% combined (varies by county portion — Yavapai vs Coconino) |
| Annual Day Limit | No limit | No limit |
| Renewal Interval | Annual | Annual |
| Platform Remits Taxes | Yes | Yes |
| Max Fine Example | $500/day for operating without a license | $500 first violation; $1,000 second; $3,500 third; up to $1,000/month without permit |
| Verdict | Both cities have comparable STR regulatory environments. | |
Seattle, Washington
Status Legal with Permit
Permit Fee $75/year short-term rental operator license
Tax Rate 15.6% combined lodging tax (state + county + city)
Day Limit No limit
Renewal Annual
Platform Tax Yes
Max Fine $500/day for operating without a license
Sedona, Arizona
Status Legal with Permit
Permit Fee $210/year
Tax Rate 13.3%–13.9% combined (varies by county portion — Yavapai vs Coconino)
Day Limit No limit
Renewal Annual
Platform Tax Yes
Max Fine $500 first violation; $1,000 second; $3,500 third; up to $1,000/month without permit
Both cities have comparable STR regulatory environments.
Seattle Overview
Both owner-occupied and non-owner-occupied units may be licensed. Operators may list up to 2 units. A platform license is also required for listing sites. Must collect and remit all applicable lodging taxes.
Full Seattle guide →Sedona Overview
Sedona straddles Yavapai and Coconino counties, so tax rates vary. Each unit needs its own permit. Special events (weddings, retreats) strictly prohibited. 24/7 complaint hotline: (928) 203-5110.
Full Sedona guide →Frequently Asked Questions
Is it easier to Airbnb in Seattle or Sedona?
Seattle is classified as "Legal with Permit" while Sedona is "Legal with Permit." Seattle's permit fee is $75/year short-term rental operator license compared to $210/year in Sedona.
Which city has higher STR taxes — Seattle or Sedona?
Seattle charges 15.6% combined lodging tax (state + county + city), while Sedona charges 13.3%–13.9% combined (varies by county portion — Yavapai vs Coconino). Compare the full breakdown in the table above.
Which city has stricter fines for illegal short-term rentals?
Seattle: $500/day for operating without a license. Sedona: $500 first violation; $1,000 second; $3,500 third; up to $1,000/month without permit.