Scranton Short Term Rental Regulation: A Guide For Airbnb Hosts

What are short term rental (Airbnb, VRBO) regulations in Scranton, Pennsylvania?

In Scranton, Pennsylvania, the realm of short-term rentals, including popular platforms like Airbnb and VRBO, is governed by a set of regulations aimed at maintaining a delicate balance between the interests of property owners, residents, and the city itself. Hosts venturing into the world of short-term rentals in Scranton must navigate a series of guidelines and requirements to ensure they operate within the bounds of local laws.

To embark on a short-term rental venture in Scranton, hosts are first tasked with registering their property with the city and securing a rental permit. This initial step involves a formal application process, payment of any associated fees, and adherence to specific criteria outlined by the city's regulations. The zoning code of Scranton plays a pivotal role in dictating where short-term rentals are permissible, with clear restrictions in place to preserve the residential character and integrity of neighborhoods.

Scranton's regulatory framework includes stipulations on guest numbers permitted in short-term rental properties and the maximum duration for which a property can be rented out annually. These regulations serve to mitigate potential issues such as overcrowding, noise disturbances, and excessive strain on residential areas, safeguarding the quality of life for local residents. By enforcing these rules, the city aims to strike a harmonious balance between the economic benefits of short-term rentals and the well-being of the community.

In addition to operational guidelines, Scranton mandates that property owners collecting revenue from accommodations rented for less than 30 days must adhere to the Pennsylvania hotel occupancy tax requirements. This tax obligation ensures that short-term rental properties contribute equitably to the local economy and infrastructure, aligning them with other lodging establishments in the region.

The city of Scranton takes a proactive approach to enforcing its short-term rental regulations, actively monitoring compliance to address any potential issues promptly. By upholding these standards, Scranton seeks to foster a positive environment where hosts can thrive economically while respecting the fabric of the neighborhoods they operate within.

In conclusion, Scranton's short-term rental regulations are designed to uphold the essence of community living, promote responsible hosting practices, and safeguard the interests of all stakeholders involved. Hosts who understand and adhere to these regulations not only contribute positively to the local economy but also play a vital role in preserving the unique charm and character of Scranton's neighborhoods.

Starting a Short Term Rental Business in Scranton

Launching a short-term rental business in Scranton, Pennsylvania requires navigating a complex web of regulations and requirements set forth by the city. The first crucial step for prospective hosts is to register their property with the local authorities and obtain the necessary rental permit.

The registration process involves submitting a formal application to the city, providing detailed information about the property, and paying any applicable fees. These fees can vary depending on factors such as the number of units in the rental property. Hosts must be prepared to demonstrate that their property meets the city's standards for health, safety, and zoning compliance.

A key consideration for short-term rental operators in Scranton is the city's zoning code, which plays a pivotal role in determining where such activities are permitted. The code includes specific restrictions aimed at preserving the residential character of neighborhoods, limiting the areas where single-family homes can be used for short-term vacation rentals.

Prospective hosts must carefully review the zoning regulations to ensure their property is located in a zone that allows for short-term rental operations. Failure to comply with the zoning requirements can result in significant legal and financial consequences, underscoring the importance of thorough research and planning before launching a short-term rental business in Scranton.

In addition to the registration and zoning considerations, hosts must also be mindful of other regulations that govern the operation of short-term rentals in the city. These may include limitations on the number of guests allowed, restrictions on the maximum number of days a property can be rented out per year, and requirements for the collection and remittance of applicable taxes.

By navigating the complex regulatory landscape and adhering to Scranton's short-term rental rules, hosts can establish and operate their businesses in a manner that aligns with the city's objectives of balancing the interests of property owners, residents, and the broader community. Careful planning, attention to detail, and a commitment to responsible hosting practices are essential for success in Scranton's short-term rental market.

Required Documents for Scranton Short Term Rentals

The required documents for short-term rentals in Scranton, Pennsylvania typically include:

• Rental License Application: Property owners must complete and submit a rental license application to the City of Scranton. This application is a key document that initiates the process of obtaining the necessary license to operate a short-term rental property in the city.
• Proof of Ownership: Owners may need to provide proof of ownership of the rental property as part of the licensing process. This documentation serves to verify ownership and ensure compliance with the city's regulations.
• Contact Information of Local Representative: When applying for a rental license, property owners are often required to provide contact information for a local representative who can be reached in case of emergencies. This ensures that there is a designated point of contact for any urgent situations that may arise.
• Health and Safety Inspection Reports: Rental properties in Scranton are subject to regular health and safety inspections to maintain compliance with licensing requirements. Property owners may need to provide inspection reports to demonstrate that their property meets the necessary standards for occupancy.
• Proof of Payment: Documentation of payment for the rental license fees is typically required as part of the application process. Property owners may need to provide proof of payment to complete their license application successfully.

These documents play a crucial role in the process of obtaining a rental license for short-term rentals in Scranton, ensuring that property owners meet the city's regulatory standards and maintain the health, safety, and well-being of occupants and the community.

Scranton Short Term Rental Taxes

In addition to the rental license, property owners in Pennsylvania who rent out accommodations for less than 30 days are required by state law to collect and remit the hotel occupancy tax. Depending on the location, there may also be additional county-level taxes that apply to short-term rentals.

Scranton-wide Short Term Rental Rules

The Scranton zoning code currently prohibits the use of single-family homes for short-term vacation rentals in residential areas, as per the 2019 Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruling.

This suggests that the city has taken a more restrictive approach to the regulation of short-term rentals compared to some other municipalities.

Does Scranton Strictly Enforce STR Rules?

While the legal and regulatory framework in Scranton appears to be less favorable for short-term rental operators, the enforcement and adherence to these rules remain somewhat unclear.

Anecdotal evidence from online forums, such as BiggerPockets and Reddit, suggests that some Airbnb hosts continue to operate in Scranton despite the legal uncertainties, indicating a level of risk tolerance among property owners.

One host on the BiggerPockets forum noted that they are "not sure of the exact legality" of renting by the room in Scranton, suggesting a lack of clarity in the city's regulations. Another host on Reddit expressed frustration with the rental licensing requirements, describing them as a "headache" and a significant administrative burden.

How to Start a Short Term Rental Business in Scranton

Carefully review the Scranton zoning code to determine if your property is located in an area that permits short-term rentals. Pay close attention to the definition of "single housekeeping unit" and how it may impact the legality of your proposed short-term rental operation.

Obtain a rental license from the City of Scranton by submitting the required application and paying the applicable fees. Be prepared to provide contact information for a local representative who can be reached in case of emergencies.

Ensure your property meets all health and safety standards to pass the city's rental inspections. This may involve making necessary upgrades or modifications to the property.

Register with the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue to collect and remit the state hotel occupancy tax, as well as any applicable county-level taxes.

Consider consulting a local real estate attorney who is familiar with the legal complexities surrounding short-term rentals in Scranton. They can help you navigate the regulatory landscape and ensure full compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.

Who to Contact in Scranton about Short Term Rental Regulations and Zoning?

For questions and inquiries regarding short-term rental regulations and zoning in Scranton, individuals can reach out to the City of Scranton's Rental Licensing Department at 570-348-4193 ext. 4555 or by email at rselemba@scrantonpa.gov.

What do Airbnb Hosts in Scranton on Reddit and Bigger Pockets Think about Local Regulations?

Discussions on online forums like BiggerPockets and Reddit provide some insight into the perspectives of Airbnb hosts operating in Scranton. Some hosts have expressed uncertainty about the legality of renting by the room, suggesting a lack of clarity in the city's regulations. Others have voiced frustrations with the rental licensing requirements, describing them as a "headache" and a significant administrative burden.

Overall, the regulatory environment for short-term rentals in Scranton appears to be more restrictive compared to some other cities, with the 2019 Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruling and the city's rental licensing program posing challenges for property owners.

However, the enforcement of these rules and the level of risk tolerance among Scranton-based Airbnb hosts remain somewhat unclear based on the available information.