Pennsylvania Airbnb and Short-Term Rental Regulations (2026 Guide)

Pennsylvania's Pocono Mountains, Philadelphia historic sites, Pittsburgh urban tourism, and rural Lancaster County create a diverse STR market serving very different guest demographics. Whether you already own a vacation rental in Pennsylvania or are evaluating your first investment, understanding the regulatory landscape is essential. STR laws in Pennsylvania vary significantly by city and county — and getting compliance wrong can mean fines, forced delistings, or lost income.

This guide covers Pennsylvania's approach to short-term rental regulation at the state level, then breaks down the rules in key markets investors and hosts need to know. Regulations as of 2026 — always verify current rules directly with your local municipality before listing.

If you'd like help navigating STR compliance in Pennsylvania, Awning's property management team operates in The Pocono Mountains, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh and helps hosts stay compliant while maximizing revenue.

How Pennsylvania Defines a Short-Term Rental

For regulatory and tax purposes, a short-term rental in Pennsylvania is generally defined as a residential property rented for 30 consecutive days or fewer. Any rental longer than this threshold is typically treated as a long-term rental and subject to different rules.

Does Pennsylvania Require a Statewide STR License?

Pennsylvania does not have a statewide STR licensing requirement. Local municipalities govern STR regulations independently.

Pennsylvania Short-Term Rental Taxes

Pennsylvania imposes a 6% state sales tax on STR income, plus local hotel taxes that vary by municipality. Philadelphia adds an 8.5% hotel tax. Pocono area counties add local lodging taxes. Airbnb collects and remits state sales tax and many local taxes automatically.

Regardless of which booking platform you use, it is your responsibility as a host to ensure all applicable taxes are collected and remitted correctly. Failure to comply can result in penalties, back taxes, and potential loss of your ability to operate.

STR Regulations by City in Pennsylvania

Below are the key STR markets in Pennsylvania and their current regulatory requirements. City regulations change frequently — check with your local planning or licensing department for the most current rules before investing.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia requires STR operators to obtain a Limited Lodging Operator License from the Department of Licenses and Inspections, plus a rental license. Non-owner-occupied STRs in residential zones require a Zoning Variance, which is difficult to obtain.

Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountain communities (Monroe, Pike, Wayne counties) vary in their STR requirements. Some boroughs require registration while others have minimal rules. The Poconos remain one of Pennsylvania's most investor-accessible STR markets.

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh requires STR operators to obtain a Short-Term Rental License from the Bureau of Building Inspection. Annual inspections and compliance with local zoning are mandatory. Owner-occupied and non-owner-occupied STRs follow different permit pathways.

Key Questions to Ask Before Listing an STR in Pennsylvania

• Does your city or county require an STR permit or license?
• Are there caps on the number of STR permits in your neighborhood or zone?
• Is your property owner-occupied or non-owner-occupied — and does that distinction affect your eligibility?
• What occupancy, noise, and parking rules apply to your specific property?
• Which taxes are you responsible for collecting and remitting vs. what the platform handles?
• Does your HOA or condo association allow short-term rentals?

The Bottom Line

Pennsylvania's STR regulatory environment ranges from investor-friendly rural counties to tightly regulated resort towns and urban cores. Understanding the specific rules in your target market — not just at the state level — is what determines whether your rental operates smoothly or faces costly disruptions.

Staying on top of changing regulations is one of the most valuable things a professional property manager brings to your operation. Awning manages short-term rentals in The Pocono Mountains, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh and monitors local regulatory changes so you don't have to. Reach out to learn how we can help you operate compliantly and profitably in Pennsylvania.