Short-Term Rental Rules in Pittsburgh, PA (2026): Permits, Taxes and Limits
Short-term renting is allowed in Pittsburgh with specific requirements. Hosts need a valid license, approval from the Zoning Administrator, and a permit. Guests must be registered and the license displayed during operation [1].
Do you need a permit or license?
Yes, a license is required to operate a short-term rental in Pittsburgh. This includes getting approval from the Zoning Administrator and a permit as per Chapter 781 [1]. The license is valid for one year and must be renewed annually [1]. The license must be posted on the property during operation [1].
Taxes
Hosts must collect a 6% Pennsylvania hotel occupancy tax and an additional 1% local tax in Allegheny County [3]. Booking agents may collect and remit this tax for hosts [2][3]. Hosts must register for a Sales, Use, and Hotel Occupancy Tax License if not using a third-party booking site that handles taxes [3].
Limits and restrictions
Guests may stay a maximum of 28 consecutive days [1]. The number of guests is determined by regulations found in Chapter 781 [1]. Guests must be 18 or older unless accompanied by a parent or guardian [1]. Owners are required to maintain a daily register of guests [1].
How to apply
Applications require documents including zoning approval, a tax compliance letter, and affidavits confirming legal use of the property [1]. Owners must provide responsible party details for daily operations [1].
At a glance
| Topic | What the rules say |
|---|---|
| License requirements | Must have a valid license renewed yearly, posted during operation [1]. |
| Tax obligations | 6% state tax and 1% county tax; collected by host or booking agent [2][3]. |
| Guest limitations | Max 28-day stays; must be 18 or older unless with guardian [1]. |
Penalties
The published rules do not mention penalties; the omission supports this claim [1].
FAQ
How long can guests stay in short-term rentals?
Guests may stay a maximum of 28 consecutive days [1].
Do I need to collect hotel occupancy tax for short-term rentals?
Yes, hosts must collect a 6% state tax and 1% county tax unless a booking agent handles it [2][3].
What documents are necessary for getting a rental license?
Owners need zoning approval, a tax compliance letter, and affidavits confirming property use [1].
Short-term rental rules elsewhere in PA
Running a rental in Pittsburgh
Permits, taxes and stays are easier to keep straight in one place. Rentology runs short, mid and long-term rentals in one system.
Sources
- City of Pittsburgh - File #: 2026-0008 (official)
- Legislation Text - 9477-16 (official)
- Home-sharing/Third-party Broker Rentals | Department of Revenue | Commonwealth of Pennsylvania (official)
Last checked: November 1, 2026. This page summarizes rules the government has published. It is not legal advice, and rules change: confirm with the local authority before you list a property.