Occupancy Limits: Bristol vs Richboro
How do occupancy limits rules compare between Bristol, PA and Richboro, PA?
Bristol and Richboro have similar restriction levels.
Bristol, PA
Bucks County
Bristol Borough has not adopted a dedicated short-term rental ordinance. Overnight occupancy is governed by the borough's adopted Property Maintenance Code (Ord. 1200, IPMC) and Chapter 27 (Zoning). Bedrooms must contain at least 70 sq ft, plus 50 sq ft per additional occupant. Confirm any STR-specific cap with Code Enforcement at 215-788-3828.
View full Bristol rules →Richboro, PA
Bucks County
Bucks County STR occupancy is governed by municipal ordinances. New Hope Borough and Solebury Township cap occupancy at 2 per bedroom plus 2 additional guests. Most townships tie occupancy to bedroom count and septic capacity.
View full Richboro rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bristol | Richboro |
|---|---|---|
| Property Maint. Code | IPMC via Ord. 1200 | - |
| Zoning Chapter | Ch. 27 | - |
| Min Bedroom Area | 70 sq ft (1st occupant) | - |
| Each Add'l Occupant | +50 sq ft | - |
| PA Statewide STR Cap | None | - |
| Code Enforcement | 215-788-3828 | - |
| Typical Cap | - | 2 per bedroom + 2 |
| Septic | - | 100 gpd/bedroom |
| Registry | - | Host must maintain |
| Revocation | - | 3 violations in 12 months |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bristol FAQ
Does Bristol Borough cap how many guests can stay in a short-term rental?
Bristol Borough has not adopted a dedicated STR cap such as 'two per bedroom.' Overnight occupancy is set by the International Property Maintenance Code (adopted via Ordinance 1200) and Chapter 27 of the borough zoning code. The IPMC requires at least 70 sq ft for the first occupant of a sleeping room and 50 additional sq ft per added occupant. Confirm the maximum for your specific address with Code Enforcement at 215-788-3828.
Do I need a borough STR permit in Bristol Borough?
Bristol Borough's online code does not list a stand-alone short-term rental license, but rental units are subject to the borough's Property Maintenance Code, periodic rental inspections, and a Change of Ownership or Occupancy Inspection by Code Enforcement. Hosts must also register with the Bucks County Treasurer (215-348-6244) for the 5% Hotel Lodging Room Rental Tax. Confirm the current local permit status with Bristol Borough at 215-788-3828.
Richboro FAQ
Who enforces occupancy limits rules in Bucks County?
Bucks County's code enforcement division is responsible for short term-rentals ordinances. You can report violations or request information through the Bucks County government website or by calling the main municipal line.
What are typical penalties for violating occupancy limits rules?
Most Bucks County short term-rentals violations start with a written warning followed by escalating civil fines for repeat offenses. Specific dollar amounts and any criminal-misdemeanor exposure depend on the section of code; consult Bucks County's municipal code or staff for the current penalty schedule.
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