Floating Residences

See also: Floating Residences Code, Shoreline Master Program Code, Shoreline Master Program Update

A brown man with a mustache standing next to a floating residence with a question mark in a thought bubble.Seattle's shoreline regulations limit residential uses on the water. In addition to liveaboards on conventional recreational vessels, the City recognizes four types of floating residences. These are:

City regulations specify how floating residences can be used and where they can be located (see code links above). Many of Seattle's floating residences are uniquely constructed, and it may not be clear which of the above categories applies to a particular residence on the water. For questions regarding a specific floating residence or liveaboard craft, please contact SDCI. Have the verification or registration number ready so we can assist you.

As part of the Shoreline Master Program updates in 2015, owners of existing floating residences are required to complete a one-time verification process to remain on the water. Each verified residence is assigned a unique 3-digit number. Owners must keep their verification records current, which includes updating the City about any changes in ownership or location. These requirements do not apply to liveaboards on conventional recreational vessels (CRVs) as defined in the Shoreline Master Program. 

Rules to Follow

In order to comply with the Seattle Municipal Code, floating residence owners must: 

  • Display a City-assigned, unique identification number.
  • Obtain SDCI authorization before starting any exterior repair, remodel, expansion, demolition, rebuild, or replacement (SMC 23.60A.020, Floating Residences Code).
  • Follow City of Seattle best management practices (BMPs) while in the shoreline and over-water to minimize impacts on the aquatic environment (SMC 23.60A.152, SMC 23.60A.155, and Tip 250, Best Management Practices in Seattle's Shoreline District).
  • Before moving a floating residence, make sure the new location is compliant with City regulations for marinas with floating residences (SMC 23.60A.200 and SMC 23.60A.202).
  • Notify the City of Seattle within 60 days when you move your residence to a new tax parcel, new marina, or new slip within the same marina (see the Floating Residences Code webpage for instructions).
  • Notify the City of Seattle within 60 days of any change in ownership or contact information for the owner (see the Floating Residences Code webpage for instructions).
  • Do not use your floating residence as a short-term rental (under 30-days). Short-term rentals are considered a commercial use and are prohibited in all over-water locations, and in nearly all of Seattle’s shoreline district.

Read the Code

 

Construction and Inspections

Sam Steele, Interim Director
Address: 700 5th Ave, Suite 2000, Seattle, WA, 98104
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 34019, Seattle, WA, 98124-4019
Phone: (206) 684-8600
Phone Alt: Violation Complaint Line: (206) 615-0808
Contact Us

Sign Up for Latest Updates

Subscribe

SDCI issues land use, construction, and trade permits, conducts construction and housing-related inspections, ensures compliance with our codes, and regulates rental rules. SDCI is committed to an antiracist workplace and to addressing racism through our work in the community.