Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Reading, PA

Short-term rentals are permitted by right in commercial districts (C-C, C-R, C-N, C-H) and by special exception in the R-3 residential district. Requirements include annual site inspections, a minimum of $500,000 in general liability insurance, compliance with safety codes (smoke detectors, fire extinguishers), and prohibitions on outdoor sleeping or RV/tent occupancy.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Reading. 1) Obtain a Zoning Permit from the City of Reading Zoning Office, ensuring it includes the supplemental use and occupancy agreement and required property maintenance documentation. 2) For units in the R-3 district, apply for a special exception through the standard zoning procedure. 3) Maintain $500,000 in general liability insurance and pass annual site inspections by the Building & Trades or Property Maintenance Departments.

1) Obtain a Zoning Permit from the City of Reading Zoning Office, ensuring it includes the supplemental use and occupancy agreement and required property maintenance documentation. 2) For units in the R-3 district, apply for a special exception through the standard zoning procedure. 3) Maintain $500,000 in general liability insurance and pass annual site inspections by the Building & Trades or Property Maintenance Departments.