Partial-Dwelling Short Term Rentals

If you are renting out a portion of your dwelling, and will remain on site during the rental period, you will need a Partial-Dwelling Short Term Rental Permit.

These permits can generally be issued over-the-counter or in a few days.

For the Partial-Dwelling STR permit, you will need to provide the following:

• Proof of ownership of the dwelling;
• A scaled site plan of the property showing the dwelling and any accessory structures;
• A floor plan of the dwelling illustrating the areas available for rental;
• A narrative that describes how the use will meet the Special Use Standards for STRs in CDC Section 12.40.230; and
• Partial-dwelling STR fee ($60)

Full-Dwelling Short-Term Rentals

If you wish to operate a Full-Dwelling STR, where the entire dwelling is rented, you will need a Development Review Permit found in the Universal Application.

These approvals cannot be issued over-the-counter. Development Review requests take approximately 6 weeks to complete (not including any appeal).

Development Review approvals require that a mailed notice be sent to nearby property owners, giving them an opportunity to provide comments on the application.

Additionally, the decision made by the Planning Division can be appealed to the Planning Commission by a participant. 

For a Development Review permit, you will need to provide the following:

• Proof of ownership of the dwelling
• A scaled site plan of the property showing the dwelling and any accessory structures
• A floor plan of the dwelling
• A narrative that describes how the use will meet the Special Use Standards for STRs in CDC Section 12.40.230.
• Development Review fee ($315)

Is there a limit to how many STRs I can operate in Hillsboro?

Yes, you may operate one Partial Dwelling STR in Hillsboro, as the property must simultaneously be used as your primary residence.

If you own multiple dwellings in Hillsboro, you may operate two of them as Full-Dwelling STRs.

How do I establish proof of ownership?

Proof of ownership is established by tax forms. Ownership includes holding ownership interest in a property.

Do I need a Business License to operate a Short Term Rental? 

Yes, a valid Business License is required to operate both a Partial-dwelling STR and a Full-dwelling STR. You can apply for a Business License with the Finance Department.

Do I need a Home Occupation Permit? 

What properties are not eligible for STRs?

Certain types of properties are never eligible for STRs.

Below is a list of those property types.

• Tents, trailers, RVs, yurts and other spaces not considered “Housing Types” in the CDC may not be used as an STR.
  
  
• Sleeping quarters in most shipping containers and outdoor areas, including tipis (teepees) and tree houses.
  
  
• Non-residential areas within buildings, such as living/sleeping quarters added in garages, storage areas, closets, halls, or utility spaces without benefit of permit.
  
  
• Commercial office/retail or industrial (warehouse) spaces.
  
  
• Group Housing properties.

Can my STR be used for special events, such as weddings?

No, STRs cannot be used for events or gatherings of people invited to the STR for the primary purpose of the social event. This includes parties, weddings, reunions, corporate retreats and other ceremonial or business activity.

Can I employ persons to perform duties associated with STR?

Yes, you can employ people to perform housekeeping, yard maintenance, or other domestic services for the dwelling. 

Transient Lodging Tax

Transient Lodging Taxes (TLT) are imposed on all short term lodging stays (30 days or less) in Washington County. This includes bookings for hotels, motels, Bed and Breakfast Inns, and Short Term Rentals. Both the STR operator and the hosting platform are jointly liable for collecting the TLT.

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What can I do if I suspect an STR is in violation of any of the City’s requirements or I have a complaint about an STR?

Contact the City’s Code Compliance Division at 503-629-0111.

What happens if my STR is found to be in violation of City code?

Code Compliance will work with you to identify STR requirements and deadlines for compliance.