Tunkhannock Township, Pennsylvania Short-Term Rental Regulation: A Guide For Airbnb Hosts

Starting a Short-Term Rental Business in Tunkhannock Township

Tunkhannock Township, located in Monroe County, Pennsylvania, has established regulations for short-term rentals (STRs) such as Airbnb and VRBO. If you're considering starting an STR business in this area, it's crucial to understand and comply with these rules to operate legally and avoid potential penalties.

To begin operating a short-term rental in Tunkhannock Township, you'll need to obtain a permit. The initial permit fee is $500 for the first year, which then reduces to $100 for subsequent years. This fee structure encourages long-term commitment to the STR business while also providing revenue for the township to manage and enforce regulations.

One of the key aspects of Tunkhannock Township's STR ordinance is its occupancy rules. The township allows 2 guests per bedroom, with an additional 4 guests permitted. This more lenient approach to occupancy compared to some neighboring townships makes Tunkhannock an attractive option for those looking to maximize their rental potential.

When applying for an STR permit, you'll need to provide detailed floor plans of your property. These plans should identify all rooms on all floors, provide dimensions of bedrooms, and indicate the locations of smoke detectors, CO2 detectors, and fire extinguishers. You'll also need to submit a site plan showing property lines, driveways, structures, parking spaces, and components of the sewage disposal system.

It's important to note that parking on lawns, vegetated areas, and public street right-of-ways is prohibited. Ensure your property has adequate off-street parking to accommodate your guests.

In addition to the township permit, you'll need to obtain a Monroe County Hotel Room Excise Tax Certificate. This requirement ensures that you're collecting and remitting the appropriate taxes on your rental income.

Tunkhannock Township also requires STR operators to carry appropriate insurance. While platforms like Airbnb provide some coverage, it's advisable to consult with an insurance professional to ensure you have adequate protection for your specific situation.

The township reserves the right to inspect STR properties to verify compliance with regulations. This may include unannounced visits, so it's crucial to maintain your property in accordance with all rules and safety standards at all times.

While some STR operators have expressed concerns about the regulations being overly burdensome, many recognize the need for some level of oversight to maintain community standards and safety. The fees and requirements in Tunkhannock Township are generally considered more reasonable compared to some neighboring areas, making it a potentially attractive location for STR investments.

It's worth noting that regulations can change, and there may be additional community-specific rules if your property is located within a homeowners association (HOA). Always check the most current ordinances and consult with local authorities or a real estate professional familiar with STR regulations in the area before starting your business.

By understanding and adhering to these regulations, you can establish a successful and compliant short-term rental business in Tunkhannock Township, contributing to the local tourism economy while providing a valuable service to visitors to the Pocono Mountains region.

Short-Term Rental Licensing Requirement in Tunkhannock Township

To operate a short-term rental (STR) in Tunkhannock Township, Pennsylvania, you must obtain a permit and comply with specific regulations. Here's a comprehensive list of requirements based on the township's official guidelines:

Permit Application: Submit a completed Short-Term Rental Permit Application form.

Floor Plans: Provide detailed floor plans of all levels, identifying all rooms and their dimensions. Include locations of smoke detectors, CO2 detectors, and fire extinguishers.

Site Plan: Submit a site plan showing property lines, driveways, structures, parking spaces, and components of the sewage disposal system.

Monroe County Hotel Room Excise Tax Certificate: Obtain and provide a copy of this certificate.

Pennsylvania Sales and Use Tax Permit: Apply for and submit a copy of this permit.

Property Deed: Include a copy of the property deed.

Insurance Policy: Provide a declaration page of a commercial insurance policy covering STR use with a minimum of $500,000 general liability.

Notice to Owner's Association: If applicable, submit a letter indicating your intent to use the property as an STR.

Safety Equipment: Ensure the property is equipped with:

• Smoke detectors in each bedroom and common hallways
• Carbon monoxide detectors if required
• GFI outlets near water sources
• Fire extinguisher in the kitchen
• Proper stair conditions and handrails

Local Contact: Designate a 24/7 local contact person.

Occupancy Limits: Adhere to the rule of 2 guests per bedroom, plus an additional 4 guests.

Parking: Provide adequate off-street parking. Parking on lawns, vegetated areas, and public street right-of-ways is prohibited.

To submit these requirements, you can email the application and documents to tunkzone@longpondpa.com or deliver them in person to the Tunkhannock Township Municipal Building.

Fees:

1. Initial permit fee: $500 for the first year
2. Renewal fee: $100 for subsequent years

Payment can be made via cash, check, or money order payable to 'Tunkhannock Township'. Credit card payments are not accepted.

The processing time for STR permits is not explicitly stated, but it's advisable to apply well in advance of your intended rental start date to allow for processing and potential inspections.

While specific fines for operating without a license aren't mentioned in the provided information, it's crucial to note that the township reserves the right to conduct unannounced inspections to verify compliance. Operating without a proper permit could result in penalties, fines, or the inability to rent your property short-term.

Remember that regulations may change, so it's always best to check with the Tunkhannock Township office for the most up-to-date information before proceeding with your STR application.

Required Documents for Tunkhannock Township Short-Term Rentals

To operate a short-term rental in Tunkhannock Township, you'll need to gather and submit several important documents. Here's a comprehensive list of the required paperwork, along with brief explanations of their purpose and where to obtain them:

Short-Term Rental Permit Application Form

1. Purpose: This is the primary document to initiate your STR permit process.
2. Where to get it: Available on the Tunkhannock Township website or at the municipal building.

Floor Plans

1. Purpose: To illustrate the layout of your property, including room dimensions and safety equipment locations.
2. Where to get it: Create these yourself or hire a professional. Existing plans on file with the township may be requested.

Site Plan

1. Purpose: To show property boundaries, structures, parking spaces, and sewage disposal system components.
2. Where to get it: Draw it yourself or use a professional service. Existing plans may be available from the township.

Monroe County Hotel Room Excise Tax Certificate

1. Purpose: Ensures you're registered to collect and remit the appropriate local taxes.
2. Where to get it: Apply through the Monroe County Treasurer's office.

Pennsylvania Sales and Use Tax Permit

1. Purpose: Allows you to collect and remit state sales tax on your rental income.
2. Where to get it: Apply online through the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue.

Property Deed

1. Purpose: Proves ownership of the property.
2. Where to get it: Obtain a copy from the Monroe County Courthouse or online through Landex.

Insurance Policy Declaration Page

1. Purpose: Demonstrates adequate liability coverage for commercial STR use.
2. Where to get it: Request this from your insurance provider. Ensure it's a commercial policy with at least $500,000 in general liability coverage.

Notice to Owner's Association (if applicable)

• Purpose: Informs your HOA of your intent to operate an STR.
• Where to get it: Draft this letter yourself, stating your plans to use the property as a short-term rental.

Proof of Safety Equipment Installation

• Purpose: Ensures your property meets safety standards for guests.
• Where to get it: Document the presence of smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, and other required safety features in your property.

Local Contact Person Information

• Purpose: Provides the township with a 24/7 contact for addressing any issues that may arise.
• Where to get it: Designate a responsible individual who can respond to concerns promptly.

Remember, all these documents should be submitted together with your application and the required fee to the Tunkhannock Township municipal office. The township may request additional documentation or clarification during the review process, so be prepared to provide supplementary information if needed.

By meticulously preparing these documents, you'll streamline your application process and demonstrate your commitment to operating a compliant and safe short-term rental in Tunkhannock Township.

Tunkhannock Township Short-Term Rental Taxes

Short-term rental operators in Tunkhannock Township, Pennsylvania, must navigate a complex tax landscape. Understanding these obligations is crucial for maintaining compliance and maximizing profitability. Here's a breakdown of the taxes that apply to short-term rentals in the area:

• Pennsylvania Hotel Occupancy Tax: This state-level tax amounts to 6% of the total rental fee, including any cleaning fees. It applies to all stays less than 30 consecutive days.
• Monroe County Hotel Room Excise Tax: As Tunkhannock Township is located in Monroe County, short-term rental operators must collect and remit this additional tax. The rate is typically around 3%, but it's essential to verify the current rate with the county treasurer.
• Pennsylvania Sales Tax: A 6% sales tax applies to the total rental fee, including any cleaning fees charged. This is in addition to the hotel occupancy tax.
• Local Sales Tax: While Tunkhannock Township itself doesn't impose an additional sales tax, it's important to note that some Pennsylvania municipalities may have their own local sales tax. Always check with local authorities for any city-specific taxes.
• Income Tax: While not a direct tax on rentals, income from short-term rentals must be reported on your state and federal income tax returns. Pennsylvania has a flat income tax rate of 3.07% as of 2025.

Possible Write-offs and Deductions

Short-term rental operators in Tunkhannock Township can potentially reduce their tax burden through various deductions:

• Cleaning and maintenance fees
• Property insurance and mortgage interest
• Utilities (water, gas, electricity, internet)
• Repairs and improvements to the rental property
• Furniture and appliance purchases for the rental
• Marketing and advertising expenses
• Property management fees
• Travel expenses related to managing the rental
• Depreciation of the property
• Home office expenses if you manage the rental from home

Remember, the ability to claim these deductions may depend on how often you rent out the property and whether you also use it for personal purposes. It's advisable to keep meticulous records of all expenses and consult with a tax professional familiar with short-term rental regulations in Pennsylvania to ensure you're maximizing your deductions while remaining compliant with tax laws.

Pennsylvania Wide Short-Term Rental Rules

While Pennsylvania lacks comprehensive statewide regulations for short-term rentals, there are some important rules that apply across the Commonwealth, including Tunkhannock Township. These statewide requirements primarily focus on taxation and basic compliance issues:

Hotel Occupancy Tax: Short-term rental operators throughout Pennsylvania must collect and remit a 6% hotel occupancy tax. This tax applies to all stays less than 30 consecutive days and is equivalent to the state sales tax rate.

Sales and Use Tax: In addition to the hotel occupancy tax, short-term rentals are subject to the 6% Pennsylvania sales tax on the total rental fee, including any cleaning fees charged.

Tax Registration: Before collecting any taxes, short-term rental operators must register for a tax license through the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue's myPATH system. This registration is a crucial step in ensuring compliance with state tax laws.

Income Reporting: Income from short-term rentals must be reported on state and federal tax returns. For rentals lasting less than 30 days, income should be reported on Tax Schedule C. Longer-term rentals use different schedules.

Local Tax Considerations: While not a statewide rule, it's important to note that some counties and municipalities may impose additional taxes. For instance, Allegheny and Philadelphia counties levy an extra 1% local hotel tax.

Liability Insurance: While not explicitly mandated by state law, many local ordinances, including those in Tunkhannock Township, require short-term rental operators to maintain liability insurance. A common requirement is at least $500,000 in general liability coverage.

Zoning Compliance: Short-term rentals must comply with local zoning laws, which can vary significantly across the state. While this isn't a state-level regulation, it's a universal requirement that affects all Pennsylvania hosts.

Anti-Discrimination Laws: Short-term rental operators must adhere to federal and state anti-discrimination laws, ensuring equal access to housing regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability.

Safety Standards: While specific requirements may vary by locality, all short-term rentals in Pennsylvania are expected to meet basic safety standards, including functional smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms where applicable.

It's crucial for short-term rental operators in Tunkhannock Township and across Pennsylvania to stay informed about both state and local regulations. While these statewide rules provide a baseline, local ordinances often impose additional, more specific requirements that hosts must follow to operate legally and responsibly.

Does Tunkhannock Township Strictly Enforce STR Rules?

Tunkhannock Township takes a relatively strict approach to enforcing short-term rental (STR) regulations, but it remains more Airbnb-friendly compared to some neighboring areas in the Poconos. The township has established clear guidelines and a permitting process for STR operators, indicating a willingness to work with hosts rather than outright banning the practice.

The enforcement in Tunkhannock Township is notably more stringent than in some other parts of Pennsylvania. Hosts are required to obtain a permit, which costs $500 for the first year and $100 for subsequent years. This fee structure suggests that the township is serious about regulating STRs while also encouraging long-term compliance.

Despite the regulations, many hosts continue to operate in Tunkhannock Township. The area's popularity as a vacation destination makes it an attractive market for STR investors. However, operating without proper permits and adherence to local ordinances is risky, as the township has shown a commitment to enforcing its rules.

Compared to some other municipalities in the Poconos, Tunkhannock Township's approach is relatively balanced. While some areas have implemented outright bans or extremely restrictive policies, Tunkhannock has created a framework that allows for STRs while attempting to address community concerns.

The township conducts inspections and has the right to revoke permits for non-compliance, indicating that they do follow through on enforcement. This has led some hosts to express frustration with the process, describing it as "onerous and overbearing." However, many recognize that these regulations are less severe than in some neighboring areas.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Tunkhannock Township

Starting a short-term rental business in Tunkhannock Township requires careful planning and adherence to local regulations. Here's a comprehensive guide to get you started:

• Research the Market: Analyze the local tourism trends, popular attractions, and competing properties. Tunkhannock Township's proximity to the Pocono Mountains makes it an attractive destination for vacationers. Consider factors like seasonality and target demographics to inform your business strategy.
• Acquire a Suitable Property: Look for a property that meets both your budget and the township's requirements. Consider factors like the number of bedrooms, parking spaces, and potential for year-round occupancy. Remember, location is key in the STR business.
• Review Zoning Laws: Ensure your chosen property is zoned for short-term rental use. Tunkhannock Township has specific zoning regulations for STRs, so it's crucial to verify compliance before proceeding.
• Obtain Necessary Permits: Apply for the Short-Term Rental Permit from Tunkhannock Township. This involves submitting detailed floor plans, site plans, and other required documents. Be prepared to pay the $500 initial permit fee.
• Register for Taxes: Obtain a Pennsylvania Sales and Use Tax Permit and a Monroe County Hotel Room Excise Tax Certificate. These are essential for collecting and remitting the required taxes on your rental income.
• Secure Proper Insurance: Acquire a commercial insurance policy with at least $500,000 in general liability coverage. This is a requirement for operating an STR in Tunkhannock Township and protects you from potential liabilities.
• Prepare Your Property: Ensure your property meets all safety requirements, including smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers. Create an appealing and comfortable space for guests, focusing on both functionality and aesthetics.
• Set Up Your Business Structure: Consider forming an LLC or other business entity to protect your personal assets. Consult with a local attorney or accountant to determine the best structure for your situation.
• Create a Management Plan: Develop systems for guest communication, cleaning, maintenance, and addressing potential issues. Consider hiring a local property manager if you're not in the area to handle day-to-day operations.
• List Your Property: Create compelling listings on popular platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. Highlight your property's unique features and proximity to local attractions. Invest in professional photography to make your listing stand out.
• Set Competitive Pricing: Research similar properties in the area to set competitive rates. Consider implementing dynamic pricing to maximize occupancy during peak seasons and events.
• Establish House Rules: Create clear guidelines for guests that align with township regulations and your personal preferences. This helps prevent issues and ensures a positive experience for both you and your guests.
• Maintain Compliance: Stay up-to-date with local regulations and renew your permit annually. Be prepared for potential inspections and address any compliance issues promptly.
• Gather and Respond to Feedback: Actively seek guest reviews and use feedback to continually improve your offering. Positive reviews are crucial for success in the competitive STR market.
• Network and Adapt: Join local STR owner groups or forums to stay informed about industry trends and changes in local regulations. Be prepared to adapt your business model as needed to stay competitive and compliant.

By following these steps and maintaining a commitment to quality and compliance, you can establish a successful short-term rental business in Tunkhannock Township. Remember, the key to long-term success is not just attracting guests, but also being a responsible member of the community and adhering to local regulations.

Who to Contact in Tunkhannock Township about Short-Term Rental Regulations and Zoning?

For the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding short-term rental regulations and zoning in Tunkhannock Township, it's best to contact the township officials directly. Here's who you should reach out to:

Tunkhannock Township Office

• Phone: (570) 646-3008
• Email: tunkzone@longpondpa.com
• Address: 1557 Long Pond Road, Long Pond, PA 18334

Kate Lambert

• Zoning/Code Enforcement, Sewage Admin. Asst., DPW Administrator, Right to Know Officer
• This is the primary contact for zoning and short-term rental inquiries.

Tina Kernan

• Secretary/Treasurer
• Email: tunksec@longpondpa.com
• For general inquiries and financial matters related to short-term rentals.

When contacting these officials, be prepared with specific questions about the short-term rental permit process, zoning restrictions, and any recent updates to the ordinances.

For hosts looking to connect with others in the area, there are a few online communities that may be helpful:

• BiggerPockets Pocono Mountains Forum: This forum has active discussions about short-term rentals in the Poconos, including Tunkhannock Township.
• Reddit r/Poconos: While not specific to short-term rentals, this subreddit often has discussions about local regulations and experiences of hosts in the area.
• Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau: While not a host-specific group, they may have valuable information about tourism trends and local regulations affecting short-term rentals.

Remember that regulations can change, so it's always best to verify information directly with the township officials. They can provide the most current and authoritative guidance on operating a short-term rental in Tunkhannock Township.

What Do Airbnb Hosts in Tunkhannock Township on Reddit and Bigger Pockets Think about Local Regulations?

Hosts in Tunkhannock Township have mixed opinions about local short-term rental regulations, as evidenced by discussions on popular forums like Reddit and BiggerPockets. Here's a summary of their thoughts and experiences:

Balanced Approach: Many hosts appreciate that Tunkhannock Township has taken a more balanced approach compared to some neighboring areas. One Reddit user noted, "In Tunkhannock Township, from what I understand, they have reached a good equilibrium and they are STR friendly as they also make good money out of it." This sentiment suggests that the township has found a way to accommodate both hosts and long-term residents.

Occupancy Rules: Hosts generally view Tunkhannock's occupancy rules favorably. A BiggerPockets user highlighted that "Tunkhannock is more favorable with their occupancy rules. They allow 2 guests per bedroom with an additional 4 allowed for the home (no max)." This flexibility allows hosts to accommodate larger groups, which can be beneficial for their business.

Permit Fees: There are mixed feelings about the permit fees. Some hosts find the initial $500 fee for the first year to be steep, but appreciate that it reduces to $100 for subsequent years. A Reddit user commented, "The $500 first-year fee is a bit high, but at least it drops significantly after that. It shows they're serious about regulation without being prohibitive."

Compliance Challenges: While many hosts are willing to comply with regulations, some find the process challenging. A BiggerPockets forum member shared, "Getting your Tunkhannock STR Permit involves obtaining PA Sales and use tax, Monroe County excise tax, and then applying for the Township permit. It's a bit of a process, but at least you can do it all online."

Overall, while there are some challenges, many Airbnb hosts in Tunkhannock Township seem to view the local regulations as a workable compromise that allows them to operate their businesses while addressing community concerns. The general sentiment is that the township has struck a balance between supporting the short-term rental market and maintaining community standards.