Pennsylvania Vacation Rental Agreement Overview
Pennsylvania imposes a 6% state hotel occupancy tax on short-term rentals. The Poconos, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and PA Dutch Country are major STR markets. Philadelphia requires a Commercial Activity License and STR permit.
Varies; Philadelphia requires a license
STR license
6% state hotel occupancy tax + local (Philly ~16%)
Occupancy tax / TOT
No statewide limit
Maximum stay
Enforced per HOA bylaws
HOA restrictions
Pennsylvania Short-Term Rental Requirements
Operating a vacation rental in Pennsylvania requires compliance with state and local regulations. Here are the key requirements for PA short-term rental hosts:
Important: Check Local Pennsylvania Regulations
Short-term rental regulations in Pennsylvania can vary significantly by city and county. Always verify current requirements with your local government before listing your property. Regulations may include permit requirements, occupancy limits, parking rules, noise ordinances, and safety inspections.
- STR License/Permit: Varies; Philadelphia requires a license — check with your local city/county government
- Tax Registration: Register with the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue to collect and remit occupancy taxes
- Safety Requirements: Working smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, and posted emergency exit routes
- Insurance: Obtain short-term rental or commercial liability insurance — standard homeowner's policies may not cover STR activity
- HOA/Condo Rules: Enforced per HOA bylaws — review your CC&Rs before listing
How to Fill Out a Pennsylvania Vacation Rental Agreement
Follow these steps to properly complete your Pennsylvania vacation rental agreement. Our template guides you through each section to ensure compliance with PA requirements.
Enter Host and Guest Information
Include the host's full legal name and contact information, and the primary guest's name, address, phone number, and email. The primary guest is responsible for all terms of the agreement.
Describe the Rental Property
Provide the complete Pennsylvania property address, property type, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, maximum occupancy, and included amenities (parking, pool, hot tub, Wi-Fi, kitchen, laundry).
Set Check-In/Check-Out and Rental Rates
Specify check-in date and time, check-out date and time, nightly rate, cleaning fee, Pennsylvania occupancy taxes, and total amount due. Include payment schedule and accepted payment methods.
Define Cancellation Policy and Damage Deposit
Establish cancellation tiers (full refund, partial refund, no refund deadlines), damage deposit amount, conditions for deductions, and refund timeline after checkout.
Include Pennsylvania House Rules
Set maximum occupancy, quiet hours, smoking policy, pet policy, parking instructions, pool/hot tub rules, trash procedures, and a no-parties/no-events clause.
Sign and Distribute
Both host and guest should sign and date the agreement. Electronic signatures are valid in Pennsylvania under the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act. Provide a copy to the guest before or at check-in.
Pennsylvania Occupancy Taxes & Fees
Pennsylvania imposes taxes on short-term accommodations that hosts must collect and remit. Here's a summary of the tax obligations for PA vacation rental operators:
| Tax / Fee | Rate / Amount |
|---|---|
| Occupancy / Lodging Tax | 6% state hotel occupancy tax + local (Philly ~16%) |
| STR License/Permit Fee | Varies by municipality |
| Business License | May be required — check local requirements |
| Platform Collection | Some platforms collect certain taxes automatically in PA |
Sample Pennsylvania Vacation Rental Agreement
Below is a preview of our Pennsylvania-specific vacation rental agreement.
STATE OF PENNSYLVANIA
VACATION RENTAL AGREEMENT
Short-Term Rental Contract
HOST / PROPERTY OWNER:
Name: [Host Name]
Address: [Pennsylvania Address]
GUEST:
Name: [Guest Name]
Address: [Guest Address]
RENTAL PROPERTY
Address: [Pennsylvania Property Address]
Check-in: [Date/Time] Check-out: [Date/Time]
Nightly Rate: $[Rate] Total: $[Total]
Pennsylvania Vacation Rental Agreement FAQ
Answers to common questions about Pennsylvania vacation rental agreements, short-term rental regulations, and host obligations.
Official Pennsylvania Resources
Use these official resources for Pennsylvania short-term rental tax registration, licensing, and regulatory guidance.
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