Pittsburgh regulates all rental properties—both short-term and long-term—under a unified rental permit program. The city does not currently differentiate between owner-occupied and non-owner-occupied short-term rentals (STRs) in its permitting requirements, making Pittsburgh relatively accessible for investors and hosts who do not live on-site13.

Key Requirements for Non-Owner Occupied STRs

• Rental Permit Required: All STR operators, including non-owner occupants, must obtain a Rental Permit for each individual rental unit. This applies regardless of whether the property is owner-occupied or not13.
• Annual Inspection: Each rental unit must pass a property inspection to ensure compliance with local safety and maintenance standards before a permit is issued or renewed13.
• Permit Application Information: Applicants must provide:
  • Property address and parcel number
  • Number of dwelling or sleeping units
  • Owner’s contact information
  • Valid government-issued photo ID
  • Certificate of occupancy (with some exceptions)
  • Authorized agent’s details (if the owner cannot facilitate inspections)
  • Additional documents as applicable (e.g., HUD contract, health permits)1.
• Fees: The city charges modest fees for permit registration and inspection (e.g., $16 per unit for registration, $5.50 and $14 per unit for inspections)1.
• Renewal: Permits must be renewed annually and upon any change in ownership or permit information1.

Zoning and Density Considerations

• Zoning Laws: While the city-wide permit program does not distinguish between owner-occupied and non-owner-occupied STRs, zoning laws may impose additional restrictions in certain neighborhoods or zones. Non-owner-occupied STRs may face stricter zoning and density regulations, so it is essential to verify the zoning designation of your property before listing it as a short-term rental23.
• Neighborhood Restrictions: Some neighborhoods may have specific rules or limitations on STRs, so always check local ordinances and HOA rules if applicable3.

Operational and Safety Standards

• Local Contact Requirement: A local contact person must be available 24/7 to address any issues or emergencies related to the rental property3.
• Safety Compliance: All STRs must have working smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and clearly marked emergency exits. The property must comply with the International Property Maintenance Code enforced by the city3.
• Insurance: STR operators are required to maintain liability insurance to cover potential incidents involving guests3.
• Record Keeping: Accurate records of guest stays must be maintained, and operators must ensure the property does not become a nuisance to the neighborhood3.

Tax Obligations

• Hotel Room Rental Tax: All STR operators must register with the city's Special Tax Division and collect a 7% hotel room rental tax on all short-term rental activities1.

Enforcement

• Department of Permits, Licenses, and Inspections (PLI): The PLI oversees enforcement, conducts inspections, and manages complaints. Non-compliance can result in fines and penalties3.