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Philadelphia short-term rental rules (2026)

Pennsylvania · United States
Restricted
These rules apply inside Philadelphia city limits only. Properties outside them follow county or neighboring-town rules.
Rules last checked  ·  Region: US

Market overview

RESTRICTEDStays under 30 nights

Allowed, with material limits.

Philadelphia distinguishes Limited Lodging (primary residence) from Visitor Accommodation (investment/non-primary).

Why do places restrict rentals?

Property eligibility: Not assessed A market overview can't tell whether a specific home qualifies (zoning, permits, HOA).

License
Required
Primary residence
Required
Tax on stays
15.5%
total, on our records
Night cap
None

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ALLOWEDStays of 30+ nights

Longer stays (30+ days)

Stays of 30 nights or more fall outside the short-term rental rules here and are let as ordinary rentals.

Guests staying this long can gain tenant rights, such as protection from eviction.

Not legal advice. The legal framework, notes and sources are in the full report.

Browse all 16 STR regulations in Pennsylvania → Browse all 944 STR regulations in United States →

The full Philadelphia rules

17 rules on record for Philadelphia, 10 of them from government sources. Every rule traced to its official source. How we research

Free account includes full rules for one place, with change alerts. Full report $39 · See a sample. For a lender or insurer: rules summary for one address, $29, free with the report. Already have an account? Sign in.

Source: Philadelphia Department of Licenses and Inspections (phila.gov, official), checked 5 Nov 2026. Official links, citations and how to apply come with a paid plan.

Quick answers

Is Airbnb legal in Philadelphia?

Yes, with material limits. Philadelphia distinguishes Limited Lodging (primary residence) from Visitor Accommodation (investment/non-primary).

Do you need a permit for a short-term rental in Philadelphia?

Yes, a license or registration is required.

What taxes apply to short-term rentals in Philadelphia?

15.5% in total on stays, on our records.

Is there a limit on rental nights in Philadelphia?

No night cap is on record.

Can I rent for longer stays in Philadelphia?

Stays of 30 nights or more fall outside the short-term rental rules here and are let as ordinary rentals. Guests staying this long can gain tenant rights, such as protection from eviction.

When were the Philadelphia rules last checked?

We last checked the short-term rental rules for Philadelphia on 5 Nov 2026.

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