Help needed! STR permit in Tobyhanna Township, Poconos

[Ravi Ramu]

Hello Everyone,

I'm hoping to get some advice on obtaining a short-term rental (STR) permit in Tobyhanna Township. I recently applied and submitted all the required documents. Everything seemed good until the township requested proof of a recent septic system pump-out.

I contacted a septic company, and they recommended doing an STR inspection alongside the pumping. While the township didn't initially ask for this inspection, they advised it "better to do" when I called to check. So, I paid $650 for both the pumping and inspection.

Unfortunately, the inspection revealed an undersized septic system (500 gallons) – they recommend a system larger than 1,000 gallons. Since the township didn't request the spetic inspection, I asked the septic company for a receipt only for the pumping. However, they provided a receipt with these concerning observations.

Now, the township wants additional information about the drain field's working condition. I contacted the same septic company again, but they're asking for an additional $800 to locate and report on the drain field's condition.

- How can I navigate this situation and get the permit approved?

- Has anyone else in Tobyhanna recently obtained an STR permit? If so, what was your experience with the septic system inspection?

- With talks of a cap on STR permits, I need to act fast. Any advice on how to proceed efficiently?

Thanks in advance for your insights!

[Michael Baum]

Hey @Ravi Ramu. Well it sounds you will be on the hook for a septic upgrade.

Has the township told you, you need to upgrade the tank or do they only want the drainfield inspection?

In the end you are going to have to comply. Pay the $800 and get the drainfield inspected and then apply.

If they haven't told you to upgrade the tank, then don't upgrade the tank. It is recommended by the septic company, not the township telling you to do it.