Overview

Yes, short-term rentals (STRs) are allowed in Pittsburgh, PA, though they are subject to a permitting process and regulations. The city operates under the Residential Housing Rental Permit Program (also known as a rental registry), which requires owners to register their rental units and undergo inspections. Additionally, there are proposed regulations that would significantly impact the STR industry if enacted. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the current regulatory environment and requirements for operating a short-term rental in Pittsburgh.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Pittsburgh

Starting a short-term rental business in Pittsburgh involves several key steps:

1. Property Assessment: Before listing, verify that the property meets zoning requirements and is eligible for STR use.

2. Permit Registration: Register with the city's Rental Permit Program through the OneStopPGH portal or in person.

3. Inspection: Schedule and pass a safety inspection of the property.

4. Compliance with Platform Policies: Follow Airbnb, VRBO, or other platform-specific policies.

5. Compliance with Building Rules: Adhere to any rules established by condominiums, cooperatives, or homeowners associations.

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Short-term rental operators in Pittsburgh must complete the following requirements:

Permit Application

• Complete rental permit registration through the OneStopPGH portal or in person
• Provide property details and owner information
• Submit identification and property ownership documentation

Fees

• Registration fee: $16.00 per rental unit
• Inspection fee: $5.50 per rental unit
• Additional inspection fee: $14.00 per dwelling or sleeping unit
• Annual renewal fee: $16.00 per unit

Inspection Checklist

Properties must meet safety standards as outlined in the city's inspection checklist, including:

• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• Fire extinguishers
• Proper egress routes
• Electrical safety
• Structural integrity

Ongoing Compliance

• Annual license renewal
• Adherence to building, fire, health, and safety codes
• Compliance with zoning requirements

Current Pittsburgh STR Regulations

Existing Requirements

• Registration: All short-term rental units must be registered with the city's Rental Permit Program.
• Inspection: Properties must pass an initial safety inspection before operation.
• Renewal: Licenses must be renewed annually.
• Fee Structure: As detailed above, with total fees varying based on property size.

Proposed Regulations (Under Consideration)

As of August 2025, Pittsburgh City Council was considering significant new regulations for STRs, introduced by Councilwoman Deb Gross. These proposed rules would:

• Location Restriction: Require property managers to be located within 25 miles of the rental property.
• Zoning Permit Requirement: Mandate that investors obtain a zoning permit before acquiring a license.
• Unit Limitations: Restrict the number of STR units to two in buildings with 20 or fewer total units.
• Owner-Occupant Exception: Allow owner-occupants to Airbnb their homes without these restrictions.
• Investor Requirements: Make it more difficult for out-of-state investors to operate STRs.

These regulations were still under consideration as of August 2025, with consideration postponed until mid-September to allow for additional community input.

State-Level Regulations for Pennsylvania

While Pittsburgh has its own local regulations, Pennsylvania state law also impacts short-term rentals:

• Short-Term Rentals: Governed by the Pennsylvania Municipal Claims and Tax Liens Act
• Tax Requirements: STR operators must collect and remit the state hotel occupancy tax (6%) and Allegheny County hotel tax (7%)
• Local Taxes: Additional local taxes may apply
• Business Registration: Pennsylvania requires businesses to register with the state

Contact Information

For questions or assistance with the Rental Permit Program:

Department of Permits, Licenses, and Inspections (PLI)

• Email: plicodeenforcementsupervisors@pittsburghpa.gov
• Phone: 412-255-2621
• Address: 412 Boulevard of the Allies, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
• Website: https://www.pittsburghpa.gov/Business-Development/Permits-Licenses-and-Inspections/Licenses/Trade-Licenses/Rental-Registration

OneStopPGH Portal: https://onestoppgh.pittsburghpa.gov

Sources

1. Housing advocates, hosts split on bill to regulate short-term rental in Pittsburgh - Public Source
2. Pittsburgh, PA - Airbnb Help
3. Rental Registration - City of Pittsburgh
4. Airbnb & Short Term Rental Laws and Regulations In Pittsburgh - 2025 - Steadily