If you’re planning to buy a vacation home in the Poconos and rent it out on Airbnb or VRBO, you’ll need to understand the short-term rental (STR) license process. Pennsylvania is a Commonwealth, which means much of the regulatory power rests with local municipalities.
That’s why the rules for STRs vary depending on whether your property is in a township, borough, or city — and why it’s so important to know the local requirements before you buy.
Who Regulates STRs in the Poconos?
In Pennsylvania, townships can regulate short-term rentals through zoning and local ordinances.
- Zoning districts matter. STRs are often permitted only in specific zoning areas and may not be permitted in some residential areas.
- Township STR ordinances define whether a license is required, what documents you need, and what safety standards apply.
- Licenses are not transferable. When you buy a property, the seller’s STR license does not carry over. You’ll need to apply for a new one. Existing licenses are a good indicator that you will get a future license, but not a guarantee.
- Zoning variances stay with the property. If a property already has a variance allowing STR use, it typically remains valid (“grandfathered in”) even if rules change.
Tip: Always ask about zoning and STR ordinances in the municipality where your future Pocono home is located.
When to Apply for a Pocono STR License
Some buyers start the application before the purchase. If time is of the essence, buyers might apply for their STR license once they are clear-to-close on their purchase. Many townships in the Poconos now offer online STR license applications and account portals.
After closing, even on closing day, you can submit your application and pay the township’s fee. The township will review your submission, often requesting additional documents before moving forward. You can’t complete your application until you own the home.
Occupancy Rules: Bedrooms vs. Septic Capacity
Occupancy limits for Poconos short-term rentals are usually tied to sewage capacity, not just real estate defined bedroom count:
- A home may have 5 bedrooms, but if the septic permit allows for 3 bedrooms, your STR occupancy will be capped at 3 bedrooms’ worth of guests.
- If you’re on a public sewer system, occupancy is easier to confirm and adjust.
- With a private septic system, you may need to provide documentation to prove system capacity in your STR application. Sometimes this requires a “right-to-know” request with the township.
Do your homework early to avoid surprises. Tax records can be a starting point but aren’t always updated automatically by township actions like Zoning Changes or Variances.
The STR Inspection Process
Once your application is complete, the township will schedule an inspection (usually within 2–4 weeks). The inspector will check for safety and compliance, including:
- Parking layout
- Stair and railing safety
- Hot tub shutoff switches
- Fire extinguishers
- Smoke and CO detectors
These inspections are designed to protect guests and reduce liability for owners.
Common STR License Requirements in the Poconos
Every township has unique rules, but you can expect to provide:
- PA Sales Tax License (required for Airbnb/VRBO rentals)
- County Treasurer’s registration for hotel tax remittance
- Parking sketch or layout plan
- Septic system documentation
- Local emergency contact info
- Owner details and contact
- Property sketch or floor plan
- Confirmation of 911 Address signage
- Acknowledgment of STR rules
- Parcel number / Tax ID
Tips for Navigating the STR License Process
- Read the ordinance. Each township publishes its own STR ordinance — take time to understand it.
- Be respectful with township staff. Clerks and inspectors are usually helpful if you’re cooperative and professional.
- Hire help if needed. Local property managers and consultants in the Poconos can guide you through the STR license process. Attorneys are rarely required.
Final Thoughts
The Pocono short-term rental license process may seem complicated, but at its core, it ensures that STRs are safe, compliant, and community-friendly. With proper preparation — and by working closely with your township — you can smoothly secure your license and start welcoming guests. The bigger townships may have a STR department with an administrator and inspector dedicated to STR applications and code enforcement. They can be quite helpful if you take the perspective that what is being asked of you the owner is designed to help provide a safe and reliable stay.
If you’re buying a vacation rental property in the Poconos, make sure STR licensing is part of your due diligence. It’s one of the most important steps in making your investment successful.
