On January 6, 2026, the Olympia City Council passed an ordinance that addresses screening practices in the rental housing application process. The ordinance amends Olympia’s Rental Housing Code (OMC 5.82) to add a new section regarding screening requirements. The ordinance goes into effect on April 1, 2026, and is intended to increase access to housing options for Olympia renters. Requiring an applicant to provide a Social Security number can have an unintended discriminatory impact on immigrants and refugees. The ordinance adds the following protections for Olympia renters: - Landlords are allowed to request but not require a Social Security number on applications.
- Applicants must be allowed to provide alternative documentation to verify identity and demonstrate eligibility.
- Protection against intimidation, harassment and/or threats based on immigration/citizenship status at any point during the application process or tenancy.
While the ordinance provides these protections to immigrants and refugees, it does not prohibit landlords from: - Complying with any legal obligation under federal law.
- Requesting additional information from the applicant to determine the qualifications or verify identity of the applicant.
- Taking adverse action based on unfavorable screening results.
Many landlords require a minimum income-to-rent ratio for a renter to qualify for a housing unit. With housing costs rising faster than wages, many households have difficulty meeting these requirements. The ordinance: Olympia’s Housing Action Plan identifies implementing tenant protections as a strategy to make it easier for households to access housing and stay housed. Barriers in the screening process can make it difficult for renters to access housing. The policy regarding Social Security number requirements also aligns with the City’s status as a Sanctuary City. | 
