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!