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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Luzerne County, PA

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals are primarily regulated at the municipal level through local rental licensing and occupancy permit programs rather than a unified county-wide ordinance. Key constraints typically include mandatory residential rental registration, safety inspections, and compliance with local zoning and occupancy limits. Additionally, hosts must ensure compliance with the Luzerne County hotel tax, which is collected automatically by platforms like Airbnb under a county contract.

How to Obtain a Permit

1. Complete the Residential Property Rental License and Inspection Application for the specific municipality (e.g., Wilkes-Barre Health Department). 2. Pay the required fees (e.g., $100 for license and $100 for inspection in Wilkes-Barre). 3. Schedule and pass a rental/occupancy inspection conducted by a city inspector.

Official Resources

Official Luzerne County STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in Luzerne County, PA?
Short-term rentals are primarily regulated at the municipal level through local rental licensing and occupancy permit programs rather than a unified county-wide ordinance. Key constraints typically include mandatory residential rental registration, safety inspections, and compliance with local zoning and occupancy limits. Additionally, hosts must ensure compliance with the Luzerne County hotel tax, which is collected automatically by platforms like Airbnb under a county contract.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in Luzerne County?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Luzerne County. 1. Complete the Residential Property Rental License and Inspection Application for the specific municipality (e.g., Wilkes-Barre Health Department). 2. Pay the required fees (e.g., $100 for license and $100 for inspection in Wilkes-Barre). 3. Schedule and pass a rental/occupancy inspection conducted by a city inspector.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in Luzerne County?
1. Complete the Residential Property Rental License and Inspection Application for the specific municipality (e.g., Wilkes-Barre Health Department). 2. Pay the required fees (e.g., $100 for license and $100 for inspection in Wilkes-Barre). 3. Schedule and pass a rental/occupancy inspection conducted by a city inspector.

Disclaimer

This information is for general reference only and may not reflect the most current regulations. STR regulations change frequently. Always verify requirements with official local government sources before operating a short-term rental.

Last verified: March 2026 · Suggest a correction