Short-Term Rentals in Lehigh County, PA (2026)

Allentown Rental Unit Registration & Inspection Program (Codified Ordinances, residential rental licensing)

If you rent out a house or apartment in Allentown, you must register it with the city by law.

County of Lehigh Hotel Room Rental Tax Rules & Regulations, Part II.A.1

Rate of Tax: The Hotel Room Rental Tax is imposed at the rate of four percent (4%).

Allentown Zoning Ordinance §660-42(7) (Accessory Dwelling Unit – Parking)

At least one off-street parking space is required for an accessory dwelling unit, in addition to required off-street parking for the principal dwelling unit on the lot.

Allentown Zoning Ordinance §660 (Bed and Breakfast Inn use note)

Limited to a maximum of 10 guest rooms. A primary owner/operator of the Bed and Breakfast Inn must live on-site.

County of Lehigh Hotel Room Rental Tax Rules & Regulations, Part II.D (Permanent Residents)

After a person has occupied or has the right to occupy for 30 consecutive days, he is no longer a "transient" as defined in the Ordinance.

County of Lehigh Hotel Room Rental Tax Rules & Regulations, Part II.B (Registration)

Within seven (7) days after the effective date of the Ordinance or within thirty (30) days after commencing business, whichever is later, each Operator of any Hotel shall register the Hotel with the Fiscal Officer.

Allentown Zoning Ordinance §660-42(10) (Owner Occupancy and Rental)

At least one of the dwelling units on a lot occupied by an accessory dwelling unit must be occupied by a record owner of the subject property.

Allentown Zoning Ordinance §660-42(11) (Accessory Dwelling Unit – Short-Term Rental)

On lots with an accessory dwelling unit, neither the principal unit or the accessory unit may be used as a short-term rental.