What zoning rules apply to STRs in Reading?

A 1,000-foot separation distance between short-term rentals may be enforced in certain zoning districts.

What are the permit fees in Reading?

At least one off-street parking space is required, or public parking must be available within 700 feet.

What are the key requirements for Reading hosts?

Property must be registered on the city housing-registration roster before an STR license can be issued.

What should Reading hosts know about gross receipts are subject to?

Gross receipts are subject to a 2.25 mill Business Privilege Tax (BPT) payable to the city.

Reading, PA Short-Term Rental Rules...

Guides

Videos

All Videos Best Videos Trending

News Rules Topics Ask AI

Reading, PA Short-Term Rental Rules... | Learn STR by GoStudioM

Regulation details

Sourced from official code

Eligibility6 rules

Reading: You can have a co-host or property manager help manage your listing.
Reading: Your HOA can prohibit short-term rentals even if the city allows them. Check your CC&Rs before applying.
Reading prohibits STRs in the following property types: Recreational Vehicles, Camper Trailers, Tents.
Reading does NOT require the property to be a primary residence. Investment properties are allowed.

Requirements12 rules

Reading STR warning: At least one off-street parking space is required, or public parking must be available within 700 feet.
Reading requires liability insurance for STR hosts. Minimum coverage: $500,000. Proof of insurance must be submitted with the annual license application.

Application process10 rules

Reading STR permit - Step 4: Submit Short-Term Rental License Application. Apply for the specific STR license via the Reading Self-Serve portal. Required documents: Proof of ownership, Floor plan, Insurance certificate. Time: 2-4 weeks. Cost: 200.

Fees & costs2 rules

Reading: At least one off-street parking space is required, or public parking must be available within 700 feet.
Reading charges a registration fee of $200 (annual). Extended/additional fee: $55 (Annual Business Privilege License fee).

Taxes3 rules

Berks charges a Berks County Hotel Room Rental Tax of 0.05%. Platforms like Airbnb collect and remit this tax.
Reading: Gross receipts are subject to a 2.25 mill Business Privilege Tax (BPT) payable to the city.
Pennsylvania has a state sales tax of 0.06% that applies to STR rentals.

Limits & restrictions3 rules

Reading limits stays to a maximum of 29 nights.
Reading enforces quiet hours: 10pm-7am.
Reading occupancy calculation: 2 persons per bedroom. Count your bedrooms to determine your max guest limit.

Safety requirements1 rule

Reading requires the following safety measures for STRs: smoke detectors, CO detectors, fire extinguisher, fire inspection, posted maximum occupancy, posted emergency contact, Floor plan identifying all egress points, Safety inspection required every 2 years, House rules must be posted inside the unit.

Penalties2 rules

Reading enforces the following penalties for STR violations: First offense: Varies by code violation. Permit may be revoked for violations.
Reading: Repeated violations can result in permanent permit revocation. You would lose the ability to operate any STR.

Exemptions2 rules

Reading exempts the following from STR regulations: long-term rentals (30+ days), extended stays, Hotels, Motels, Licensed Bed and Breakfasts.
Reading: Rentals of 30+ days are generally NOT considered short-term rentals and may be exempt from STR regulations (but may have other requirements).

Reading

Summary

Restriction level

Why this classification

In plain English

At a glance

4 things hosts often miss

Create a free account

Regulation details

Create a free account

How to get permitted

Upgrade to Pro

Frequently asked questions

Disclaimer

Summary

Restriction level

Why this classification

In plain English

At a glance

4 things hosts often miss

Regulation details

How to get permitted

Upgrade to Pro

Frequently asked questions

1Do I need a permit for short-term rentals in Reading?

2What is the TOT tax rate in Reading?

3Are there zoning restrictions for STRs in Reading?

4What are the fees for short-term rentals in Reading?

Disclaimer