Lancaster County, PA Short-Term Rentals: Occupancy Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- County occupancy cap
- None; municipal only
- City of Lancaster cap
- Two adults per bedroom
- Max stay length (City)
- 30 consecutive days per party
- Other municipalities
- Set their own caps
- County role
- Hotel tax only, not occupancy
Summary
Lancaster County sets no STR occupancy cap; limits are municipal. In the City of Lancaster, the number of guests in one party may not exceed two adults per bedroom, and the maximum length of stay per registered party is 30 consecutive days. Other municipalities set their own caps.
The number of guests in one party shall not exceed two adults per bedroom. The maximum length of stay per registered party shall be 30 consecutive days.
Full Breakdown
Occupancy limits for short-term rentals are a municipal land-use matter in Pennsylvania, not a county one. The City of Lancaster is a representative example: its Chapter 300, Article XVII rules cap guests in one party at two adults per bedroom and set the maximum length of stay per registered party at 30 consecutive days. Those figures apply only within City limits; Manheim Township, Lititz, East Hempfield, and the county's other municipalities each set their own occupancy formulas, some tied to bedroom count and some to a fixed maximum head count. Because there is no countywide standard, a host must check the specific ordinance for the city, borough, or township where the property is located.
Violations & Fines
Occupancy is enforced by the municipality. In the City of Lancaster, exceeding two adults per bedroom or renting to a single party beyond 30 consecutive days violates the transient dwelling standards and is enforced by the City Housing Unit, with
Frequently Asked Questions
How many guests can stay in a Lancaster County short-term rental?
Is there a maximum length of stay for an STR?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Lancaster County
Compare Lancaster County to another location·View the Pennsylvania short-term rentals overview
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