Executive Summary: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Narvon, PA?

YES — Short-term rentals are allowed in Narvon, Pennsylvania, but with significant restrictions and requirements. Narvon is an unincorporated community within Caernarvon Township, Lancaster County. Caernarvon Township adopted a specific Short-Term Rental Ordinance (#124) on January 16, 2023, which governs STR operations within the township. STRs are permitted as special exceptions in certain zoning districts, subject to the conditions outlined in Ordinance #124 and the township's zoning regulations.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Narvon

Step 1: Zoning Compliance and Special Exception Process

1. Determine Your Property's Zoning District: Use the Caernarvon Township Zoning Map to identify your property's zoning classification.

2. Verify STR Permissibility: Review the Caernarvon Township Zoning Ordinance to confirm that STRs are permitted in your zoning district as a special exception.

3. Submit Special Exception Application: File a special exception application with the Zoning Hearing Board. As demonstrated in the public notice for Case No. 23-80, STRs in agricultural districts require special exception approval.

4. Prepare for Public Hearing: The Zoning Hearing Board conducts public hearings where neighbors can voice concerns. Applications must demonstrate compliance with Ordinance #124.

Step 2: Business Registration and Tax Compliance

1. Register with Pennsylvania Department of Revenue: Obtain sales tax registration for collecting and remitting state taxes.

2. Lancaster County Tax Registration: Register with Lancaster County for hotel excise tax collection.

3. Business Insurance: Secure comprehensive liability insurance specific to short-term rental operations.

Step 3: Operational Setup

1. Property Standards: Ensure compliance with the International Property Maintenance Code (2018 Edition), adopted October 2, 2023.

2. Safety Compliance: Install required safety equipment (smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers).

3. Neighbor Relations: Establish protocols for noise management, parking, and guest conduct.

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Primary Regulatory Documents

• Short-Term Rental Ordinance #124 (Adopted January 16, 2023) - Primary governing document for STRs
• Caernarvon Township Zoning Ordinance - Contains zoning requirements and special exception procedures
• Zoning Hearing Board Application - Required for special exception approval

Supporting Applications and Permits

• Zoning Permit: Required before commencing STR operations
• Building Permits: If renovations or structural changes are needed
• Home Occupation Permit Application: May be required depending on zoning district
• Complaint Form: Available for addressing violations or concerns

Tax Registration Requirements

• Pennsylvania Sales Tax Registration (6% state rate)
• Lancaster County Hotel Excise Tax Registration (1% county rate)

Specific Regulations: City, County, and State Level

Caernarvon Township Level (Primary Jurisdiction)

Based on the 2023 ordinance adoption and the special exception case example, key township regulations include:

Special Exception Requirements:

• STRs must obtain special exception approval from the Zoning Hearing Board
• Application process includes public hearing with neighbor notification
• Properties in agricultural zones (AG district) specifically require special exceptions per §502 of the Zoning Ordinance

Compliance Standards:

• Must comply with International Property Maintenance Code (2018 Edition)
• adherence to township noise, parking, and occupancy standards
• adherence to local setback and dimensional requirements

Lancaster County Level

Tax Requirements:

• Hotel Excise Tax: 1% tax on all STR bookings
• Local Business Registration: May be required for STR operations

Pennsylvania State Level

Tax Requirements:

• State Sales Tax: 6% on all STR bookings
• Business Registration: Required for tax collection and remittance
• Consumer Protection: Must comply with Pennsylvania's rental property regulations

Contact Information for Local Authority

Primary Contact: Caernarvon Township

Municipal Office:

• Address: 2139 Main Street, Narvon, PA 17555
• Phone: (717) 445-4244
• Fax: (717) 445-7119
• Website: https://caernarvonlancaster.org

Office Hours:

• Monday through Thursday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
• After hours: By appointment

Key Departments:

• Zoning Officer: Primary contact for STR zoning questions and permit applications
• Building Inspector: For compliance with property maintenance codes
• Zoning Hearing Board: For special exception applications and hearings

Additional Contacts

Building Inspection Services:

• Associated Building Inspections LLC
• Technicon Enterprises

Source Pages and Documentation

Primary Regulatory Documents

1. Caernarvon Township Official Website
2. Short-Term Rental Ordinance #124
3. Caernarvon Township Zoning Ordinance
4. Official Zoning Map

Application Forms and Permits

5. Zoning Hearing Board Application
6. Home Occupation Permit Application
7. Complaint Form

Supporting Codes and Ordinances

8. International Property Maintenance Code (2018 Edition)

Legal Notice Example

9. STR Special Exception Case Notice

Investment Considerations and Market Analysis

Regulatory Environment

Narvon's regulatory framework for STRs is established but evolving. The 2023 adoption of Ordinance #124 demonstrates active municipal oversight, while the special exception requirement ensures community input on STR operations. Investors should expect a rigorous approval process requiring demonstrated compliance with safety, zoning, and community impact standards.

Market Position

Located within Lancaster County's Amish Country tourism region, Narvon offers STR investors access to a steady stream of visitors seeking authentic rural experiences. The area's proximity to French Creek State Park, Welsh Mountain Nature Preserve, and other outdoor attractions provides consistent demand for short-term accommodations.

Compliance Risk Assessment

High Priority Risks:

• Zoning violations from operating without proper special exception approval
• Tax non-compliance with state and county requirements
• Safety code violations under the International Property Maintenance Code

Mitigation Strategies:

• Engage local legal counsel familiar with Caernarvon Township regulations
• Establish relationships with township officials early in the application process
• Implement robust guest screening and management protocols
• Maintain detailed compliance records and regular property inspections

This guide provides the foundational information necessary for STR investment in Narvon, Pennsylvania. Given the active regulatory environment and special exception requirements, investors should budget additional time and resources for the approval process and ongoing compliance management.