When deciding whether to become an Airbnb host, it is important for you to understand the laws in your region or city. As a platform and online marketplace we do not provide legal advice, but we want to provide resources that may help you better understand applicable laws and regulations. This list is not exhaustive, but it may give you a good start in understanding your local laws. If you have questions, visit the short-term rental homepage or other government agencies directly, or consult a local lawyer or tax professional.
Hosts in Philadelphia are required to obtain a license to host short-term stays (fewer than 30 nights). See the City’s FAQs here. There is different eligibility based on your property type:
Before operating an STR, you are required to obtain a commercial activity license, a zoning permit, or a limited lodging operator license for primary residences, or a rental license with a hotel designation for non-primary residences.
Philadelphia classifies short-term rentals into two categories:
1. Limited Lodging: The short-term rental of a unit which has a primary residence. In order to rent your primary residence short-term you will need a Limited Lodging Operator License. You will you will need the following in order to apply:
2. Visitor Accommodations: The rental of a unit that does not have a primary resident. If you are renting a dwelling unit that is not your primary residence, you need a Rental License with a hotel classification. In order to receive this you will need to following:
Once you determine which type of license you’ll need, you must submit your application.
Please contact the Department of Licenses and Inspections Department directly for additional information.
License numbers must be clearly displayed on all advertisements for the short-term rental unit and licenses must be renewed annual. If you haven’t added your license to your listing(s), we recommend doing that as soon as possible.
Comprehensive information including the application process, fees and renewals are available on the City’s website. We also encourage you to consult the Frequently Asked Questions page to learn more.
To offer your property as a short term rental, you will need:
Once you’ve obtained these, you’ll need to obtain the appropriate License to operate a short-term rental:
If the property is NOT owned by a natural person or a publicly-traded company, the City will request that you provide the name and mailing address of one of the following:
If you are a tenant making an application, the City will require that you provide your executed lease agreement.
You need:
The total registration fee is $150. You may also need to obtain a Philadelphia business tax account ID (Department of Revenue); a Commercial Activity License, (Department of Licenses and Inspections); and Zoning Permit for the use.
The City requires that hosts pay the monthly City of Philadelphia Hotel tax, which is 8.5% of the amount received through renting. Visit the City’s website for more information.
It's also important to understand and abide by other contracts or rules that bind you, such as leases, condo board or co-op rules, HOA rules, or rules established by tenant organizations. Please read your lease agreement and check with your landlord if applicable.
We are committed to working with local officials to clarify how local rules impact the community. We will continue to advocate for changes that will enable people to rent out their homes.