Back
Penn Forest Township, Pennsylvania Short-Term Rental Regulation: A Guide For Airbnb Hosts
🤔 Confused? Get your vacation rental license, tax registration and inspections done for you

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not legal advice. Regulations could have changed since this article was published. Check local zoning authorities and consult a legal professional before making any decisions.
⚡️
Reveal any property's Airbnb and Long-Term rental profitability
Buy this property and list it on Airbnb.
Starting a Short-Term Rental Business in Forest Township
Penn Forest Township, located in Carbon County, Pennsylvania, has established comprehensive regulations for short-term rentals (STRs) such as those listed on Airbnb and VRBO. These rules aim to balance the economic benefits of the tourism industry with the need to maintain the rural and recreational character of the township. If you're considering starting a short-term rental business in Penn Forest Township, here's what you need to know:
Licensing and Registration: All short-term rental properties in Penn Forest Township require an annual license. The current fee for this license is $250 per year. The license is valid for one year from the date of approval.
Zoning Permit: In addition to the annual license, new STR operators must obtain a one-time zoning permit. The application fee for this permit is $150. It's important to note that the zoning permit is only required once for new registrations and does not need to be renewed annually.
Occupancy Limits: The township has set clear guidelines on occupancy. The maximum overnight occupancy is calculated as an average of two people per bedroom, plus four additional guests. For example, a three-bedroom property would have a maximum occupancy of 10 overnight guests. Children two years or younger do not count towards this limit.
Parking Requirements: The number of parking spaces provided must, at minimum, equal the number of bedrooms in the rental property. For instance, a three-bedroom rental must have at least three designated parking spaces.
Septic System Regulations: Penn Forest Township requires that septic tanks be pumped at least every three years. When applying for or renewing a license, property owners must provide a recent septic pumping receipt.
Safety Measures: While specific safety requirements aren't detailed in the available search results, it's common for municipalities to require smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers in short-term rentals.
Noise Regulations: The township has implemented noise regulations to minimize disturbances to neighbors. While the exact quiet hours aren't specified in the search results, many municipalities set noise curfews, especially for weekends and holidays.
Community Rules: It's crucial to note that many properties in Penn Forest Township are part of homeowners' associations (HOAs) or planned communities. These may have additional rules and regulations for short-term rentals. For example, communities like Towamensing Trails, Mt. Pocahontas, Indian Mountain Lake, and Bear Creek Lakes may have their own STR registration requirements and regulations.
Inspection Requirements: Penn Forest Township requires an annual inspection of short-term rental properties. The inspection fee is $150, and property owners must complete a Short-term Rental Inspection Form.
Complaint System: The township has established a 24/7 hotline (855-255-5767) for STR-related complaints. This system allows for prompt addressing of any issues that may arise from short-term rentals.
Taxes: While not explicitly mentioned in the township regulations, it's important to remember that short-term rental operators in Pennsylvania are typically required to collect and remit both the Pennsylvania Hotel Occupancy Tax and local taxes.
Starting a short-term rental business in Penn Forest Township requires careful planning and adherence to these regulations. The township's approach aims to create a balance between supporting the local tourism economy and maintaining the quality of life for permanent residents. By following these rules and being a responsible host, you can contribute positively to the community while running a successful short-term rental business.
Remember that regulations can change, so it's always best to check with the Penn Forest Township office for the most up-to-date information before starting your short-term rental business. The township's website and zoning office are excellent resources for current regulations and application processes.
Short-Term Rental Licensing Requirement in Penn Forest Township
Penn Forest Township has established a comprehensive licensing system for short-term rentals (STRs) to ensure proper regulation and management of these properties. Here's a detailed breakdown of the licensing requirements based on the official township information:
Annual License: All short-term rental properties in Penn Forest Township require an annual license. The current fee for this license is $250 per year.
Zoning Permit: New STR operators must obtain a one-time zoning permit. The application fee for this permit is $150. This permit is only required once for new registrations and does not need to be renewed annually.
Application Process:
- Complete and submit the "Short-Term Rental License Registration" form online through the township's website.
- Fill out the "Zoning Permit Application for Short-Term Rental" and submit it to the Penn Forest Township Municipal Building.
- Provide all required documentation, including:
A photograph of the property taken from the road
A floor plan showing dimensions of rooms on each floor
A diagram indicating designated parking spaces
A recent septic pumping receipt
Proof of no outstanding Carbon County Hotel Room Excise Tax or Pennsylvania Sales Tax
Property Information:
- Provide the property's parcel number (found on Carbon County Parcel Viewer)
- Include the rental property's 911 address
Contact Information:
- Owner's full name, address, phone number, and email address
- 24-hour contact person's full name, address, phone number, and email address
Property Specifications:
- Number of bedrooms (minimum 70 sq. feet each)
- Number of parking spaces (must equal the number of bedrooms)
- Maximum overnight occupancy (average of two people per bedroom, plus four)
- Marketing entity identification number (listing number) for the STR
Inspection: An annual inspection is required, with a fee of $150. Property owners must complete a Short-term Rental Inspection Form.
Submission: The license registration and payment can only be submitted through the township's website. The zoning permit application must be submitted to the township office with a check or cash payment.
Processing Time: While the exact processing time isn't specified, the license is valid for one year from the date of approval, suggesting that processing occurs relatively quickly once all documentation is submitted correctly.
Fines and Penalties: Operating a short-term rental without a license is a violation of the township ordinance. While specific fines aren't detailed in the provided information, violations of township ordinances typically result in civil enforcement proceedings with judgments of up to $500 plus court costs, including reasonable attorney fees.
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed annually. Failure to renew on time results in a fee twice the normal renewal amount. If not paid within 90 days of the due date, a new application (not a renewal) is required.
It's important to note that these requirements are subject to change, and property owners should always check with the Penn Forest Township office for the most current information before starting or renewing their short-term rental business. The township's website and zoning office are the primary resources for up-to-date regulations and application processes.
Required Documents for Penn Forest Township Short-Term Rentals
To operate a short-term rental in Penn Forest Township, property owners must submit several documents as part of their application process. Here's a comprehensive list of the required documents along with explanations of their purpose:
Short-Term Rental License Registration Form
- Purpose: This is the primary application form for obtaining a short-term rental license.
- Where to get it: Available on the Penn Forest Township website's short-term rental portal.
Zoning Permit Application for Short-Term Rental
- Purpose: This one-time permit ensures the property complies with local zoning regulations.
- Where to get it: Available on the Penn Forest Township website or at the municipal building.
Property Photograph
- Purpose: To visually identify the property from the roadside.
- What to submit: A clear photograph of the short-term rental taken from the road, including the visible street address.
Floor Plan
- Purpose: To verify the number and size of bedrooms and overall layout of the property.
- What to submit: A scaled drawing showing dimensions of rooms on each floor. Each bedroom must be a minimum of 70 square feet.
Parking Diagram
- Purpose: To ensure adequate off-street parking for guests.
- What to submit: A diagram or photograph indicating the number and location of designated on-site parking spaces. The number of spaces must at least equal the number of bedrooms.
Septic System Evaluation
- Purpose: To verify the proper functioning and capacity of the property's sewage disposal system.
- What to submit: An evaluation from a certified pumper/hauler stating the system is functioning properly, along with proof that the tank was pumped within the last three years.
Marketing Entity Identification Number
- Purpose: To link the property with its online rental listings.
- What to submit: The listing number(s) from platforms like Airbnb or VRBO where the property is advertised.
Proof of Tax Compliance
- Purpose: To ensure all required taxes have been paid.
- What to submit: Documentation showing no outstanding Carbon County Hotel Room Excise Tax or Pennsylvania Sales Tax for the preceding year.
911 Address Verification
- Purpose: To ensure proper emergency response capabilities.
- What to submit: Proof of compliance with the township's 911 address signage requirements.
Owner and Contact Person Information
- Purpose: To provide the township with reliable contact information for the property.
- What to submit: Full name, address, phone number, and email address for both the owner and a 24-hour contact person (if different from the owner).
Occupancy Calculation
- Purpose: To determine the maximum number of overnight guests allowed.
- What to submit: A statement of the number of bedrooms and the calculated maximum occupancy (two people per bedroom, plus four).
Sewage Disposal System Information
- Purpose: To verify the adequacy of the property's sewage system.
- What to submit: Details on the location, type, approximate age, and capacity of the sewage disposal system.
These documents are crucial for ensuring that short-term rentals in Penn Forest Township meet all local regulations and operate safely. Property owners should carefully prepare and submit all required documentation to avoid delays in the licensing process. Remember that regulations may change, so it's always best to check with the Penn Forest Township office for the most up-to-date requirements.
Penn Forest Township Short-Term Rental Taxes
Short-term rental operators in Penn Forest Township, Pennsylvania are subject to several taxes at the state and local levels. Understanding these tax obligations is crucial for running a compliant and successful rental business. Here's a breakdown of the taxes that apply:
State Taxes
- Pennsylvania Hotel Occupancy Tax: This is a 6% tax on the total listing price, including any cleaning fees and guest fees, for reservations of 29 nights or shorter. This tax is collected by the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue and applies to all short-term rentals across the state.
- Local Sales Tax: An additional 1% tax is levied on top of the state hotel occupancy tax in certain counties, including Allegheny and Philadelphia. However, this does not apply to Penn Forest Township, which is located in Carbon County.
County Taxes
Carbon County Hotel Room Excise Tax: While the exact rate for Carbon County is not specified in the search results, many counties in Pennsylvania impose their own hotel tax. Short-term rental operators in Penn Forest Township should check with the Carbon County Treasurer's office for the current rate and collection procedures.
Township Fees
- Annual License Fee: Penn Forest Township requires short-term rental operators to obtain an annual license. The current fee for this license is $250 per year.
- Zoning Permit Fee: New short-term rental operators must obtain a one-time zoning permit. The application fee for this permit is $150.
- Inspection Fee: An annual inspection is required for short-term rentals in Penn Forest Township, with a fee of $150.
Tax Collection and Remittance
Short-term rental operators are responsible for collecting these taxes from guests and remitting them to the appropriate authorities. However, some booking platforms like Airbnb may collect and remit certain taxes on behalf of the host. It's important to verify which taxes are being handled by the platform and which remain the responsibility of the host.
Possible Write-offs and Deductions
Short-term rental operators in Penn Forest Township may be eligible for several deductions to offset their tax liability:
- Mortgage interest on the rental property
- Property taxes
- Utilities and insurance
- Cleaning and maintenance expenses
- Furnishings and supplies for the rental
- Advertising and marketing costs
- Professional fees (e.g., accountant, lawyer)
- Depreciation of the property and its contents
- Travel expenses related to managing the rental
- Guest-service or host-service fees charged by booking platforms
It's important to keep detailed records of all expenses related to the short-term rental business to maximize deductions and ensure compliance with tax laws. Consulting with a tax professional familiar with short-term rental regulations in Pennsylvania can help operators navigate the complexities of tax obligations and potential deductions.
Pennsylvania Wide Short-Term Rental Rules
While Pennsylvania does not have comprehensive state-wide laws specifically targeting short-term rentals, there are some regulations and requirements that affect hosts across the state, including those in Penn Forest Township:
- Hotel Occupancy Tax: All short-term rental operators in Pennsylvania are required to collect and remit the state's 6% Hotel Occupancy Tax on rentals of 29 nights or less. This tax applies to the total listing price, including any cleaning fees and guest fees.
- Sales and Use Tax: Short-term rentals are subject to the state's 6% Sales and Use Tax, which is typically combined with the Hotel Occupancy Tax for a total of 12% state tax on short-term rentals.
- Third-Party Tax Collection: Many online booking platforms, such as Airbnb and VRBO, collect and remit state taxes on behalf of their hosts. However, hosts should verify which taxes are being handled by the platform and which remain their responsibility.
- Tax Licensing: Hosts who exclusively use third-party booking agents that collect and remit taxes on their behalf are not required to obtain a separate Sales, Use, and Hotel Occupancy Tax license from the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue. However, hosts who accept direct bookings without a booking agent must obtain this license.
- Building and Safety Codes: While specific requirements may vary by municipality, all short-term rentals in Pennsylvania must comply with state building and safety codes, including regulations for smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers.
- Zoning Regulations: The Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code grants local governments the authority to regulate land use through zoning ordinances. This means that while there are no state-wide zoning laws specific to short-term rentals, municipalities have the power to create and enforce their own zoning regulations for these properties.
- Anti-Discrimination Laws: Short-term rental hosts in Pennsylvania must comply with the state's Human Relations Act, which prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, education status, disability, or familial status.
- Record Keeping: While not explicitly required by state law, it's generally recommended that hosts maintain detailed records of their rental activity, including guest information, dates of stay, and financial transactions, for tax and legal purposes.
- Insurance: While not mandated by state law, hosts should consider obtaining appropriate insurance coverage for their short-term rental properties. Some municipalities may require proof of insurance as part of their local regulations.
- Consumer Protection: Short-term rentals in Pennsylvania are subject to the state's Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law, which requires truthful advertising and fair business practices.
It's important to note that these state-wide rules provide a baseline for short-term rental operations in Pennsylvania. However, hosts in Penn Forest Township and other municipalities must also comply with any additional local regulations, which may be more stringent than the state requirements. Always check with local authorities for the most up-to-date and specific regulations applicable to your area.
Does Penn Forest Township Strictly Enforce STR Rules?
Penn Forest Township has taken a relatively balanced approach to short-term rental (STR) regulations compared to other municipalities in the Poconos region. While the township has implemented rules and licensing requirements for STRs, it is generally considered to be Airbnb-friendly.
The township's approach to STR enforcement can be characterized as moderate. Penn Forest Township requires STR operators to obtain an annual license, which costs $250, and a one-time zoning permit for $150. These requirements are in place to ensure proper management and oversight of rental properties. However, the township does not impose overly burdensome restrictions that would make it prohibitively difficult to operate an STR.
Hosts in Penn Forest Township continue to operate STRs despite the rules, and many find the regulations to be reasonable. The township's approach seems to strike a balance between allowing property owners to benefit from short-term rentals and addressing concerns of permanent residents.
Based on discussions in online forums like BiggerPockets and Reddit, hosts generally view Penn Forest Township as one of the more STR-friendly areas in the Poconos. Many investors specifically seek out properties in this township due to its relatively accommodating stance on short-term rentals.
While the township does enforce its regulations, it does not appear to do so in an overly aggressive manner. The focus seems to be on ensuring compliance rather than penalizing hosts. This approach has fostered a environment where STR operators can run their businesses successfully while adhering to local guidelines.
It's worth noting that Penn Forest Township's regulations are more lenient compared to some neighboring municipalities that have implemented stricter rules or outright bans on STRs. This has made Penn Forest an attractive option for those looking to invest in vacation rentals in the Poconos area.
How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Penn Forest Township
Starting a short-term rental business in Penn Forest Township requires careful planning and adherence to local regulations. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you get started:
Research the Market
- Analyze the demand for short-term rentals in Penn Forest Township
- Study peak seasons and potential occupancy rates
- Identify your target audience (families, couples, outdoor enthusiasts, etc.)
- Evaluate competition and pricing strategies
- Tip: Use data from vacation rental platforms and local tourism statistics to inform your market research. Consider joining local real estate investment groups to gain insights from experienced hosts.
Acquire a Suitable Property
- Look for properties zoned for short-term rentals
- Consider factors like proximity to attractions, amenities, and accessibility
- Ensure the property meets or can be upgraded to meet township requirements
- Tip: Work with a local real estate agent familiar with short-term rental regulations in Penn Forest Township. They can help you find properties that are well-suited for this purpose.
Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses
- Apply for the annual short-term rental license ($250 fee)
- Obtain the one-time zoning permit ($150 fee)
- Schedule and pass the required annual inspection ($150 fee)
- Tip: Start the application process well in advance of your intended opening date to allow for processing time and any potential issues that may arise.
Prepare Required Documentation
- Gather all necessary documents (property photos, floor plans, parking diagrams, etc.)
- Ensure your septic system is up to date and properly documented
- Prepare owner and emergency contact information
- Tip: Create a dedicated folder (both physical and digital) to organize all your documentation. This will make annual renewals and inspections much easier.
Set Up Your Property
- Furnish and decorate the property to appeal to your target audience
- Install required safety equipment (smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers)
- Create a welcome book with house rules, local attractions, and emergency information
- Tip: Consider hiring a professional interior designer or photographer to make your property stand out in online listings.
Establish Your Business Structure
- Decide on a business entity (LLC, sole proprietorship, etc.)
- Register your business with the state
- Open a separate bank account for your rental business
- Tip: Consult with a local accountant or lawyer to determine the best business structure for your specific situation.
Set Up Accounting and Tax Procedures
- Implement a system for tracking income and expenses
- Familiarize yourself with state and local tax requirements
- Set up procedures for collecting and remitting required taxes
- Tip: Consider using specialized short-term rental management software to streamline your accounting and tax processes.
Create Your Marketing Strategy
- List your property on popular vacation rental platforms (Airbnb, VRBO, etc.)
- Develop a website for direct bookings
- Establish social media presence to showcase your property
- Tip: Invest in high-quality photos and compelling descriptions to make your listing stand out. Consider offering special promotions for first-time guests or during off-peak seasons.
Develop Operational Procedures
- Create a cleaning and maintenance schedule
- Establish check-in and check-out procedures
- Set up a system for guest communication and support
- Tip: Consider hiring a local property manager or cleaning service to help maintain your property, especially if you don't live nearby.
Comply with Ongoing Requirements
- Keep accurate records of all rental activity
- Stay informed about any changes to local regulations
- Renew your license and schedule inspections annually
- Tip: Set reminders for important dates like license renewals and tax deadlines to ensure ongoing compliance.
Gather and Respond to Guest Feedback
- Encourage guests to leave reviews
- Respond promptly and professionally to all feedback
- Use guest suggestions to continually improve your offering
- Tip: Create a post-stay survey to gather detailed feedback from guests, which can help you identify areas for improvement.
By following these steps and staying committed to providing excellent guest experiences, you can establish a successful short-term rental business in Penn Forest Township. Remember to always prioritize compliance with local regulations and maintain open communication with township officials to ensure smooth operations.
Who to Contact in Penn Forest Township about Short-Term Rental Regulations and Zoning?
For inquiries about short-term rental regulations and zoning in Penn Forest Township, the following contacts and resources are available:
Penn Forest Township Municipal Office
- Address: 2010 State Route 903, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229
- Phone: 570-325-2768 or 570-325-2769
- Fax: 570-325-8230
- Email: secretary@pennforesttownship.org
- Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Zoning Office
- Phone: 570-325-2760
- Office Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 8 am - 11 am
Code Enforcement Officer
- Greg Loftus
- Phone: 570-657-7991
- Email: codeenforcement@pennforesttownship.org
Short-Term Rental Complaint Hotline
Phone: 855-255-5767 (24/7 hotline for STR-related complaints)
For specific questions about short-term rental licenses and inspections, it's recommended to contact the Zoning Office during their office hours. They can provide the most up-to-date information on regulations, application processes, and zoning requirements.
Useful Communities and Resources for Hosts:
Poconos Subreddit (r/Poconos): This online community often discusses short-term rental topics and local regulations. It can be a valuable resource for connecting with other hosts and staying informed about local issues.
BiggerPockets Forums: The "Short-Term & Vacation Rental Discussions" section on BiggerPockets often features threads about Pennsylvania short-term rentals, including discussions about regulations in various townships.
Penn Forest Township Website: The official township website (pennforesttownship.org) provides access to ordinances, forms, and updates related to short-term rentals. It's a crucial resource for staying informed about local regulations.
Local Real Estate Investment Groups: While specific groups aren't mentioned in the search results, joining local real estate investment associations in the Poconos area can provide networking opportunities and insights into navigating local short-term rental regulations.
Remember that regulations can change, so it's always best to verify information directly with the township officials. These contacts and resources should help you stay informed and compliant with Penn Forest Township's short-term rental regulations.
What Do Airbnb Hosts in Penn Forest Township on Reddit and Bigger Pockets Think about Local Regulations?
Airbnb hosts in Penn Forest Township and the surrounding Poconos area have been vocal about their experiences with local regulations on various online platforms. Here's a summary of their thoughts and experiences:
Reddit Discussion on Poconos Subreddit: A thread on r/Poconos from January 2020 sparked a lively debate about short-term rental ordinances in the area. One host expressed concern about the "extremely onerous and overbearing" nature of the regulations, particularly mentioning the high costs involved for permits and insurance. They questioned how other homeowners were dealing with these ordinances, noting that many rely on short-term rentals to offset high property taxes.
Bigger Pockets Forum Post: A comprehensive post from December 2024 on BiggerPockets provided insights into navigating Poconos townships and their STR rules. The author mentioned Penn Forest Township as one of the areas where short-term rentals are legal. They noted that while regulations are in place, they have remained relatively stable since being established.
Reddit Comment on Community Impact: A long-term resident shared their perspective on the impact of short-term rentals in their community. They described issues such as overcrowding, excessive noise, fireworks, and trash left by renters. The commenter expressed frustration with the strain on local infrastructure and the difficulty in contacting absentee property owners .
These discussions reveal a complex landscape for Airbnb hosts in Penn Forest Township and the broader Poconos region. While some hosts express frustration with the regulations, others seem to have adapted to the rules and focus on optimizing their properties within the given framework. The ongoing dialogue suggests that short-term rental regulations remain a topic of interest and concern for hosts in the area.
🤔 Confused? Get your vacation rental license, tax registration and inspections done for you
Get Help⚡️
Reveal any property's Airbnb and Long-Term rental profitability
Buy this property and list it on Airbnb.