Bethlehem, PA Short-Term Rentals: Occupancy Limits (2026)

C of Article 1741 requires each Short Term Lodging License to note how many lodgers are permitted for that specific short term rental, and requires the applicant to submit and stay in constant compliance with an accurately drawn floor plan documenting bedrooms, smoke alarms, and carbon monoxide detectors. B supplies the actual standard behind that number: the current City of Bethlehem Housing Code determines the maximum occupancy of the Short Term Lodging Facility, and, where the owner-occupant rents a specific bedroom accommodation, the Housing Code likewise sets the number of individuals permitted in that designated bedroom.

Because the occupancy figure is fixed by the Housing Code rather than negotiated per license, an owner cannot list more lodgers on a booking than the Housing Code allows for that unit or bedroom regardless of what a booking platform's own guest limit shows. 1 exists precisely so the City can verify the occupancy figure against the number and size of bedrooms and the placement of life-safety devices before the license issues.