Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed?

Yes, short-term rentals are allowed in Marietta, PA (East Donegal Township), but with specific restrictions and requirements. The township has developed a regulatory framework for STRs that requires property owner residency and compliance with various operational standards. The current framework allows STRs as permitted uses in most zoning districts with appropriate permits and adherence to township regulations.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business

Starting a STR business in East Donegal Township requires several steps:

1. Verify Zoning Compliance: Confirm your property is in an eligible zoning district (Conservation, Agricultural, Village Center, or Historic Preservation Overlay)
2. Establish Owner Residency: Ensure you can meet the residency requirement (must reside in the detached single-family house being rented)
3. Obtain Required Permits: Apply for zoning permits and any necessary building permits
4. Prepare Documentation: Compile all required documentation including emergency contact information, insurance, and compliance certificates
5. Submit Applications: File applications with the township zoning officer
6. Schedule Inspections: Complete any required life-safety inspections
7. Establish Operational Procedures: Implement parking, waste disposal, and guest management protocols

Required Documents, Permits, and Guidelines

Based on the township regulations, operators must provide:

Documentation Requirements:

• Property ownership verification
• Emergency contact information (24/7 accessible)
• Proof of insurance meeting township standards
• Life-safety compliance certificates (building code requirements)
• Parking plan demonstrating adequate spaces
• Waste disposal plan meeting township standards

Permits and Licenses:

• Zoning permit for short-term rental use
• Building permits if any modifications are required
• Special exception approval if operating in Historic Preservation Overlay district
• Fire safety inspection and certificate of occupancy compliance

Operational Guidelines:

• Maximum rental period of 30 days per guest stay
• Prohibition of special events at STR properties
• Compliance with building codes and life-safety requirements
• Waste disposal protocols as established by township
• Parking restrictions as specified in the ordinance

Specific Regulations

Zoning Districts Where STRs Are Permitted:

• Conservation District: Permitted use
• Agricultural District: Permitted use
• Village Center District: Permitted use
• Historic Preservation Overlay: Special exception required

Key Operational Restrictions:

• Owner Residency Requirement: Property owner must reside in the detached single-family house being rented out (established in June 2023)
• Maximum Stay Duration: 30 days per guest
• Property Type: Individual existing dwelling unit only
• Special Events: Prohibited at STR properties
• Parking: No specific number of spaces required, but adequate parking must be provided

Compliance Requirements:

• Building Code Compliance: Must meet all life-safety requirements
• Waste Management: Proper disposal protocols must be established
• Emergency Contact: 24/7 contact information required
• Local, County, and State Regulations: Full compliance mandatory

Ongoing Obligations:

• Regular inspections may be required
• Maintenance of compliance with all township regulations
• Response to township inquiries and enforcement actions

Contact Information

East Donegal Township

• Address: 190 Rock Point Road, Marietta, PA 17547
• Phone: (717) 492-1504
• Email: Contact through township website
• Website: eastdonegaltwp.com

Key Township Officials:

• Township Manager: Jeffrey Butler (mentioned in meeting minutes)
• Zoning Officer: Contact through township office for zoning permit applications

For Current Information:

• Board of Supervisors meetings held first Thursday of each month at 7:00 PM
• Planning Commission meetings as scheduled
• Check township website for current ordinance status and updates

Source Pages

1. LancasterOnline Article - July 11, 2023

2. East Donegal Township Meeting Minutes - August 5, 2021

Important Note: This analysis is based on documents from 2021-2023. STR regulations can evolve, and investors should verify current requirements directly with East Donegal Township before making investment decisions. The township was in the process of finalizing the ordinance framework, and updates may have occurred since these documents were published.