Airbnbs and similar short-term rentals have become a problem throughout the state of Pennsylvania, with many questioning why they aren’t regulated and from what level that regulation needs to come.

Apparently, municipalities are charged with these decisions, and that was the topic of conversation at the Lehigh Township Board of Supervisors meeting July 14.

Several residents spoke up about the problems arising around a number of such properties in the township. Allegations of everything from loud parties and over-parking, to drug deals and assault, were aired at the meeting. Concerns over property values and home security were brought up, along with the transient nature of said renters during this time of COVID-19.

In response, the township has promised to look into ordinances that may govern the offending properties, including the definition of a bed-and-breakfast. The board also mentioned the necessity of an ordinance limiting extensions of bedrooms on existing homes.

Areas across the state, and beyond, have reported complaints of Airbnb and other such platforms defying stay-at-home orders and running “party houses.”

According to Airbnb, the company has a strict no-parties rule for hosts and guests, but clearly some people in Pennsylvania are flouting the rules and running the risk of losing their account with the online, short-term rental leader if complaints are lodged against them.

Airbnb and other platforms have been banned in several Pennsylvania municipalities. In addition, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruled May 6 that properties solely and continually operating as short-term rentals violate residential zoning codes. Accordingly, properties in residential areas that operate strictly as short-term rentals are now subject to zoning violation enforcement by Pennsylvania municipalities.

Though the ultimate response from township supervisors remains to be seen, the topic is under serious discussion.