Can I Airbnb in Philadelphia, PA? (2026)

Short-term rentals (under 30 consecutive days) are legal in Philadelphia but require a zoning permit plus a license before listing: primary residents need a $150/year Limited Lodging Operator License, while non-primary-residence STRs need a Rental License with hotel designation ($69/unit/year) and a Visitor Accommodations zoning permit that is only available by right in certain commercial/mixed-use districts, not in lower-density residential neighborhoods. The biggest restriction is that investor-style STRs (no primary resident) are effectively shut out of most residential zoning districts, and platforms must delist any unit without a valid city license number. Always confirm current requirements with the city before operating.

What’s required: a Limited Lodging Operator License ($150) is required; occupancy taxes apply; renew annual.