Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Ephrata, PA

Airbnb listings are allowed in Ephrata, PA, but with restrictions. Short-term rentals (less than 30 days) of an entire dwelling while the permanent resident is not present require special exception approval from the Zoning Hearing Board. Operators must also register the unit as a rental and comply with Chapter 253 residential rental standards, including occupancy limits and tax compliance. A permit is required before you can host. These rules apply to all short-term rental platforms (Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, etc.) — not just Airbnb specifically. See the official source linked on this page for full requirements. Last verified 2026-05-14.

Short-term rentals (less than 30 days) of an entire dwelling while the permanent resident is not present require special exception approval from the Zoning Hearing Board. Operators must also register the unit as a rental and comply with Chapter 253 residential rental standards, including occupancy limits and tax compliance.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Ephrata. 1. Obtain special exception approval from the Zoning Hearing Board. 2. Apply for a residential rental permit through the Codes Enforcement Office by providing manager contact info and an occupant list. 3. Pay the annual permit fee and pass a property inspection; permits must be renewed by November 30 each year.

1. Obtain special exception approval from the Zoning Hearing Board. 2. Apply for a residential rental permit through the Codes Enforcement Office by providing manager contact info and an occupant list. 3. Pay the annual permit fee and pass a property inspection; permits must be renewed by November 30 each year.

Vrbo is permitted in Ephrata, PA under the same restrictions that apply to Airbnb — local rules govern the rental itself, not the specific platform. You must hold a valid permit before hosting on Vrbo. Last verified 2026-05-14.

Short-term rental hosts in Ephrata are typically responsible for lodging, occupancy, and applicable sales taxes — these usually apply even where hosting is allowed without a permit. Rates and remittance rules vary by jurisdiction (state, county, and city can each levy a share); confirm the current rates with the official source linked on this page. Platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo collect some taxes automatically, but the host remains liable for any not collected on their behalf.

We are not currently tracking any recent short-term rental ordinance changes for Ephrata. STR rules change frequently — verify the current requirements with the city or county before listing, using the official source linked on this page.