Permit Requirements: McKeesport vs Penn Hills
How do permit requirements rules compare between McKeesport, PA and Penn Hills, PA?
Penn Hills has fewer restrictions than McKeesport.
McKeesport, PA
Allegheny County
McKeesport has no dedicated STR ordinance. Operators must obtain a business privilege license and comply with zoning for lodging/rooming uses. Property maintenance code and UCC apply.
View full McKeesport rules →Penn Hills, PA
Allegheny County
Penn Hills does not have a dedicated short-term rental permit ordinance. Operators must obtain a Certificate of Use, Occupancy and Compliance for any rental use and comply with zoning. No dedicated STR license exists, unlike the Pittsburgh Chapter 781 program.
View full Penn Hills rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | McKeesport | Penn Hills |
|---|---|---|
| City STR Ordinance | None dedicated | - |
| Mercantile License | Required | - |
| Zoning | Check 2017 Ordinance | - |
| State Tax | 6% under 72 P.S. §7209 | - |
| County Tax | 7% Allegheny County hotel tax | - |
| Dedicated STR Permit | - | None in Penn Hills |
| Required Certificate | - | Use, Occupancy and Compliance |
| Safety Standard | - | PA UCC compliance required |
| State Tax Registration | - | PA Department of Revenue |
| County Tax Registration | - | Allegheny County Treasurer |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
McKeesport FAQ
Do I need a permit to list my property on Airbnb in McKeesport?
McKeesport has no specific STR registration ordinance as of 2025. You must obtain a Mercantile/Business Privilege License, comply with the 2017 Zoning Ordinance, register for Allegheny County's 7% hotel tax, and meet PA UCC/IPMC life-safety standards.
Who collects the hotel taxes on my Airbnb in McKeesport?
Airbnb and VRBO collect and remit the 6% PA state hotel tax and generally the 7% Allegheny County hotel tax as "booking agents" under PA Act 109 of 2018. You are still required to register with Allegheny County Treasurer.
Penn Hills FAQ
Do I need a short-term rental permit in Penn Hills?
Penn Hills has no dedicated STR permit. Operators must still obtain a Certificate of Use, Occupancy and Compliance for the rental use, verify zoning allows commercial lodging, and register for state and county hotel occupancy taxes.
Is Penn Hills adopting STR regulations like Pittsburgh?
As of early 2026, Penn Hills has not adopted a Chapter 781-style registration program. STR enforcement is pursued under general zoning, occupancy, and property maintenance codes. Monitor Penn Hills Council ordinance updates for changes.
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