Bensalem, PA Rental Property Rules: Rental Registration (2026)

Bensalem Township requires an annual rental license before any dwelling or rooming unit can be offered for rent. Sec. 123-14(a) makes the license a separate requirement from any occupancy permit the Zoning Code demands, and the annual application under Sec. 123-14(b) must identify the premises, the owner (including any corporation's Commonwealth registration), and a managing agent authorized to receive notices on the owner's behalf; the application must be signed by the owner or corporate officer and by the managing agent. Sec. 123-15 sets the fee at $15.00 for every dwelling or rooming unit offered for rent, plus $50.00 for each unit that has not had a use and occupancy inspection within the preceding three years, due each year by April 15.

Sec. 123-16 charges a $50.00 filing fee to change the designated managing agent, and Sec. 123-17 requires the same $50.00 fee, filed with the Township at the time of any conveyance, to record a change of ownership; failing to file does not void the transfer but exposes the prior owner to the chapter's penalties. Applications must carry a signed affirmation that false statements are punishable under 18 Pa. C.S. Section 4904, the Commonwealth's unsworn-falsification statute. The Building and Planning Department administers the program and issues, withholds, or revokes licenses based on the inspection required under Sec. 123-14(c).