Rental Licensing

Rental Licensing

2024 Letter to Landlords Tenant Bill of Rights Rental Health and Safety Inspection Report Frequently Asked Questions

In November 2022, City Council passed the RENTAL Ordinance of 2022, which changes the City’s procedures for licensing rental properties.

We anticipate these changes will help clarify and streamline the rental licensing application process so that, together, we can all uphold the health and safety of our community.

Robin Selemba

Office Hours:
Monday-Friday | 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Phone:
570.348.4193 ext. 4555
Email:
rselemba@scrantonpa.gov

Rental License Required

Under the new ordinance, it is now mandatory for all rental properties to obtain a Rental License.

The deadline for applying for licensing for each rental property is September 15. Beginning in 2024, license renewal applications must be submitted March 15 annually.

Additionally, any new rental unit must be licensed within 30 days of tenancy.

Please note, license fees are based on the number of rental units within the property, as outlined below:

  • 1 to 3 Units: $45 per unit
  • 4 to 9 Units: $150 flat fee
  • 10 to 19 Units: $250 flat fee
  • 20 to 49 Units: $350 flat fee
  • 50+ Units: $450 flat fee

Immediate family-occupied rental units are exempt from these fees, but still require licensing. When applying for a license, you will be asked to provide contact information of a local representative who can be reached in case of emergencies.

Please be aware that starting from September 16, 2023, renting out an unlicensed unit will be considered a violation of the law.

The City of Scranton may impose sanctions, such as refusal to issue a Rental License, as well as other penalties including fines and potential imprisonment.

Foreclosed or Vacant Properties

Any real property located in the City of Scranton, whether vacant or occupied, that is in default on a mortgage, has had a lis pendens filed against it by the lender holding a mortgage on the property; is subject to an ongoing foreclosure action by the lender, is subject to an application for a tax deed or pending tax assessor’s lien sale, or has been transferred to the lender under a deed in lieu of foreclosure, is required to be registered.

The designation of property as “abandoned” shall remain in place until such time as the property is sold or transferred to a new owner, the foreclosure action has been dismissed and any default on the mortgage has been cured.

To register your foreclosed or vacant properties visit: tolemi.com/scranton-pa

Inspection Required

To ensure the health and safety of occupants, each rental property will be subject to regular health and safety inspections.

The first re-inspection will be conducted free of charge. However, if additional re-inspections are necessary, a re-inspection fee will apply.

It is essential to pass the inspection to maintain your Rental License and avoid potential penalties.

Applying

We have made the process of applying for or renewing a Rental License convenient and accessible.

Starting from June 1, 2023, you can submit your application online here: tolemi.com/scranton

Payment options include e-check (no fee) or credit/debit card (subject to a 3% transaction fee).

The City of Scranton is committed to fostering strong relationships with landlords. If you have any questions or require further assistance, please contact Robin Selemba at 570.348.4193 ext. 4555 or email rselemba@scrantonpa.gov.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Family Occupied Units Must be Licensed but No Fee is Applied.

Yes, Vacant Properties Should be Registered but No Fee is Applied.

You can register your vacant or foreclosed properties here.

Inspections will Take Place on a Three-Year Cycle.

Skip to content