Definition of an adult family home
An adult family home (AFH) is a dwelling, licensed by the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS), in which a caregiver provides room, board, and care for up to eight adults not related to the person providing the services.
AFH licensing
Under RCW 70.128.066, you must have approval from DSHS to operate an AFH or to add additional services to an existing permitted AFH.
For more information on AFH licensing, visit the DSHS page about AFHs.
AFH inspections
In cooperation with DSHS, we inspect new or newly renovated AFHs to check their compliance with the International Residential Code (IRC). An inspection is required for:
● New AFHs, including those in an existing home
● Existing AFHs that add bedroom capacity to serve additional clients
Pre-inspection requirements
Before requesting an inspection, you’ll need to get a permit through our permitting portal. You must also complete an AFH checklist and provide it to the inspector.
Other permits you may need
If you are converting an existing residence or home to make it comply with the IRC, you may need separate construction permits.
If you are building a new AFH, you’ll also need construction permits.