How to Get a Short-Term Rental Permit in Tobyhanna Township, PA
If you own a property in Tobyhanna Township, PA and want to rent it out on Airbnb or VRBO, you’ll need a Short-Term Rental (STR) permit. The Township has a detailed process that you’ll need to follow to get approved. This guide walks you step-by-step through exactly what you need to do.
What Counts as a Short-Term Rental?
Tobyhanna Township defines an STR as any dwelling rented for less than 30 days. STRs are permitted in all residential zoning districts, but you must follow the Township’s rules and your community’s HOA regulations (if applicable).
👉 See the STR FAQ for details.
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Tobyhanna Township requires you to have all of the following information and documentation ready before you submit your application.
You’ll need:
The name, address, and twenty-four-hour telephone number of all person(s) in charge.
A floor plan identifying rooms on all floors, the specific location of bedrooms, and the location of any pools (labeled as either in-ground or above-ground).
The total number of permitted bedrooms.
A diagram or aerial photo showing the location and number of on-site parking spaces that comply with Township definitions (no lawn or right-of-way parking).
If not on a central sewer system: a septic system evaluation certifying the system is functioning as intended and proof the tank was pumped within the past three years.
Copy of current Monroe County Hotel Room Excise Tax Certificate.
Copy of current Pennsylvania Sales & Use Tax Permit (with identifying numbers removed).
A copy of written notice to the homeowners’ association (HOA), if applicable, indicating intent to apply. (This can be as simple as a screenshot of an email)
Signatures of the owner, STR operator, and person(s) in charge if designated.
Proof of at least $500,000 in general liability insurance, maintained for the full license term.
Proof that the property is equipped with:
(a) Smoke detector in each bedroom
(b) Smoke detectors outside each bedroom in common hallways
(c) Smoke detectors on each floor
(d) GFI outlets within six feet of a water source
(e) Aluminum or metal dryer exhaust
(f) CO detector if open flame furnace, fireplace, or wood stove is present
(g) CO detector if garage is attached
(h) Fire extinguisher in the kitchen
(i) Indoor/outdoor stairs in good condition
(j) All windows in good working order
(k) Fireplaces cleaned every two years
👉 See the Township’s official Short-Term Rental Code for the full ordinance language.
Step 2: Register Through the STR Portal
Tobyhanna Township manages STR permits through a web-based system.
Start at the Township’s Short-Term Rental page.
Once inside, you’ll submit your application and upload all supporting documents.
👉 Portal support: STR Portal FAQ.
Step 3: Pay Your Fees
The permit fee is due at submission. As of the latest schedule:
First-time permit: $600
Annual renewal: $500
👉 Fee details are listed in the Township’s STR FAQ.
Step 4: Township Review & Inspections
The Township will review your application for completeness. Incomplete applications won’t be processed.
The Township will conduct an inspection of the property to verify safety and compliance.
Step 5: Post Your Permit Number
Once approved, you must:
Display your permit number in your online listing (Airbnb/VRBO).
Keep the permit visible at the property.
Step 6: Renew Annually
STR permits are good for one year. You must renew before the expiration date, updating any changes to the property, ownership, or operations.
Permits are non-transferable. If you sell your home or change ownership, the new owner must apply for a new permit.
Failure to renew or violations of the STR ordinance may result in fines or loss of permit.
Key Things to Remember
Occupancy: Maximum is generally two people per bedroom plus two extra.
Parking: Must be off-street and on your property.
Taxes: You must stay current with Monroe County hotel tax and PA sales tax.
Insurance: Maintain your $500K liability coverage at all times.
Final Checklist
✔ Floor plan with labeled bedrooms
✔ Parking diagram
✔ Septic certification (if applicable)
✔ Hotel excise tax certificate
✔ PA sales & use tax permit
✔ Proof of $500K liability insurance
✔ HOA notice (if required)
✔ Smoke detectors, CO detectors, fire extinguisher, GFI outlets
✔ STR permit number in listing
Ready to Apply?
Start at the Township’s Short-Term Rental Permit page and make sure you have all your documents ready before submitting.