Short-Term Rental Guide for Nesquehoning, PA

Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Nesquehoning, PA?

Yes, short-term rentals are explicitly allowed in Nesquehoning, PA. The borough council officially adopted a short-term rental ordinance on February 23, 2023, making Nesquehoning one of the Pennsylvania municipalities that permits STR operations under specific regulatory guidelines. The ordinance establishes a structured framework that recognizes short-term rentals as potentially beneficial for the community when operated properly, providing homeowners with revenue opportunities while maintaining neighborhood integrity.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Nesquehoning

Step 1: Property Compliance Verification

Before applying for licensure, ensure your property meets basic requirements:

• Dwelling Classification: Your property must conform to the borough's zoning ordinances regarding dwelling definitions
• Sleeping Room Standards: At least one room must be intended for sleeping and measure a minimum of 70 square feet
• Violation Clearance: The property must not have any outstanding code violations or municipal liens

Step 2: Licensing Application Process

• Application Submission: Apply directly with Nesquehoning Borough for a short-term rental license
• Documentation Package: Prepare all required documentation (detailed below)
• Inspection Scheduling: Coordinate with borough code enforcement for property inspection
• Fee Payment: Pay all applicable licensing and inspection fees

Step 3: Operational Setup

• Parking Arrangement: Secure off-street parking for guests unless granted a waiver by the borough
• Local Contact Establishment: Designate a local contact person available for guest issues and emergency response
• Insurance Verification: Ensure adequate liability insurance coverage for short-term rental operations

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Primary Licensing Requirements

• Short-Term Rental License: Mandatory annual license issued by Nesquehoning Borough
• Property Inspection: Required safety and compliance inspection by borough code enforcement
• Zoning Compliance Certificate: Verification that the property conforms to residential use requirements

Documentation Checklist

• Completed license application form (available at borough office)
• Property deed or ownership documentation
• Current property tax records
• Proof of liability insurance (minimum coverage amounts specified by borough)
• Local contact information and 24/7 availability verification
• Floor plans showing room dimensions (minimum 70 sq ft for sleeping rooms)
• Parking plan demonstrating compliance or waiver request documentation

Safety and Building Compliance

• Smoke detector installation and functionality verification
• Carbon monoxide detector requirements where applicable
• Fire safety equipment standards compliance
• Exit route mapping and posting requirements

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

Borough-Level Requirements (Nesquehoning)

• Universal Licensing: All rental properties (both short-term and long-term) must obtain licensing and undergo inspection
• Zoning Compliance: Properties must maintain compliance with residential zoning classifications
• Parking Standards: Off-street parking is mandatory unless the borough grants a specific waiver
• Sleeping Room Specifications: Minimum 70 square feet for designated sleeping areas
• Violation-Free Status: Properties cannot have outstanding municipal violations during licensing

County-Level Regulations (Carbon County)

As of the provided content, no specific Carbon County short-term rental regulations were identified that would supersede or complement Nesquehoning's borough requirements. However, county-level building codes and health regulations may apply to rental properties.

State-Level Regulations (Pennsylvania)

Pennsylvania municipalities derive authority to regulate short-term rentals from:

• Municipal Home Rule Authority: Pennsylvania municipalities can adopt zoning and business regulations
• Police Powers: Local governments can regulate activities affecting public health, safety, and welfare
• Case Law Foundation: The 2019 Pennsylvania Supreme Court case Slice of Life, et al v. Hamilton Twp ZHB established that municipalities have broad authority to regulate transient uses in residential areas

Local Authority Contact Information

Nesquehoning Borough Office

• Phone: (570) 669-9588
• Address: 114 W. Catawissa St., Nesquehoning, PA 18240
• Website: nesquehoning.org/
• Office Hours: Contact directly for current business hours
• Primary Departments:
  • Code Enforcement (for inspections and compliance)
  • Administrative Office (for licensing applications)
  • Zoning Officer (for zoning compliance verification)

Key Contact Notes

• License Applications: Submit directly to the borough administrative office
• Code Enforcement Issues: Coordinate with the borough's code enforcement department
• Emergency Contact: Ensure local contact information is provided for guest emergencies

Source Pages and Additional Resources

Primary Sources

1. Nesquehoning Borough News Coverage: www.tnonline.com/20230223/nesquehoning-sets-short-term-rental-rules/

   • Original announcement of ordinance adoption (February 23, 2023)
   • Contains core regulatory requirements and borough perspective

2. Pocono Municipal Scorecard: poconovacationhomesales.com/2022/03/01/str-scorecard-municipal-rules-on-short-term-rentals-in-the-poconos/

   • Comprehensive municipal comparison including Nesquehoning
   • Regional context and telephone contact information

3. Nesquehoning Borough Official Website: nesquehoning.org/ordinances

   • Complete code of ordinances and municipal regulations
   • Access to licensing forms and permit applications

Additional Resources

• Nesquehoning Borough Code of Ordinances: Available through the official website
• Short-Term Rental Terms and Conditions: Obtain complete list at borough office
• Carbon County Government: For county-level building and health regulations

Important Note for Investors: While this guide provides comprehensive information based on available sources, regulations can change. Always verify current requirements directly with Nesquehoning Borough before making investment decisions. The complete list of terms and conditions is available at the borough office, and investors should request the full regulatory package before proceeding with property acquisition or licensing applications.