How to Open a Sober Living Home in Pennsylvania: Complete 2026 Operator Guide

How to Open a Sober Living Home in Pennsylvania: Complete 2026 Operator Guide

Opening a sober living home in Pennsylvania requires navigating DDAP licensing, PARR certification, and $2.2 billion in opioid settlement funding opportunities spread across the state through 2038. Pennsylvania’s regulatory framework under 28 Pa. Code Chapter 717 gives operators a clear path to compliance, while its fifth-largest-in-the-nation population of nearly 13 million residents creates sustained demand for quality recovery housing. This guide walks you through every step of starting a sober living home in the Keystone State, from business formation and licensing to building referral networks and accessing funding.

An estimated 785,000 Pennsylvanians struggle with substance use disorders, and the state’s treatment infrastructure of 600-plus DDAP-licensed facilities creates a steady pipeline of residents needing step-down recovery housing. The regulatory landscape changed significantly in 2021 when 28 Pa. Code Chapter 717 established licensing requirements for certain recovery houses. Understanding when licensing is required versus optional is the first decision every Pennsylvania operator must make.

What this guide covers:

• Pennsylvania DDAP licensing requirements and when they apply
• PARR (Pennsylvania Alliance of Recovery Residences) voluntary certification
• Step-by-step startup roadmap from business formation to opening day
• Startup costs by major Pennsylvania market
• $2.2 billion in opioid settlement funding and how to access it
• Zoning navigation and Fair Housing Act protections
• Building referral relationships with SCAs, treatment centers, and courts

Is Pennsylvania a Good Market for Sober Living Operators?

Pennsylvania offers strong opportunities for recovery housing operators. The combination of population density, regulatory clarity, and unprecedented funding creates favorable conditions for dedicated operators who are willing to meet the state’s quality standards.

Market Demand Indicators

Pennsylvania’s substance use crisis generates consistent demand for recovery housing:

• Nearly 13 million residents make Pennsylvania the fifth-largest state
• An estimated 785,000 Pennsylvanians (7%) struggle with substance use disorders
• Approximately 301,000 residents have an active illicit drug use disorder
• 68,125 admissions to substance use disorder treatment programs (most recent data), with 58% opioid-related
• Overdose deaths peaked at over 5,000 in 2021 and have declined to approximately 3,300 in 2024
• 600-plus DDAP-licensed SUD treatment facilities statewide
• Strong network of Single County Authorities (SCAs) administering local programs
• 81% of licensed treatment facilities enrolled in Treatment Atlas

The state’s lower cost of living compared to neighboring New York and New Jersey, combined with strong job markets in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and the Lehigh Valley, makes Pennsylvania attractive for both operators and residents.

Competition and Opportunity by Market

Understanding where competition is concentrated and where gaps exist helps you choose the right location for your first home.

Market	Competition Level	Opportunity	Avg Monthly Rent (5-6 BR)
Philadelphia	High	Largest population, strong treatment infrastructure, urban need	$2,500-$4,000
Pittsburgh	Moderate-High	Growing market, $20M in opioid settlement allocated to housing	$1,800-$3,000
Allentown/Lehigh Valley	Moderate	Strategic location near NYC/Philly, growing demand	$2,000-$3,600
Harrisburg	Low-Moderate	State capital, affordable entry, underserved	$1,600-$2,800
Scranton/Wilkes-Barre	Low	Affordable, university town, significant unmet need	$1,400-$2,400
Reading	Low-Moderate	Underserved community, affordable entry	$1,400-$2,200
Erie	Low	Northwestern PA underserved, lowest competition	$1,200-$2,000

Underserved Populations and Regions

Pennsylvania has significant unmet needs that operators can target for differentiation:

Underserved Regions:

• Northeastern Pennsylvania (Scranton, Wilkes-Barre)
• Central Pennsylvania outside Harrisburg
• Northwestern Pennsylvania (Erie region)
• Rural communities across the state

Underserved Populations:

• Single parents in recovery (only four licensed homes for pregnant women/mothers statewide)
• LGBTQ+ affirming recovery residences
• Mixed-gender/couples housing (only one licensed facility statewide)
• Veterans (Pennsylvania has a large veteran population)
• Court-ordered and probation referrals
• Spanish-speaking residents

According to the DDAP licensed recovery house directory, significant gaps in specialized housing present clear differentiation opportunities for new operators.

Pennsylvania Legal Requirements for Sober Living Homes

Pennsylvania’s regulatory framework for recovery houses is more developed than many states. The state licensing requirements established under Chapter 717 create a clear compliance pathway, but understanding when licensing is required versus optional is essential for building the right business model.

State Licensing Under DDAP

When Is Licensing Required?

Under 28 Pa. Code Chapter 717 and Act 59 of 2017, Pennsylvania requires licensing for recovery houses that:

1. Want to receive referrals from state agencies or state-funded facilities, or
2. Want to receive federal or state funding to deliver recovery house services

Additionally, the law imposes requirements on referral sources:

• Persons whose treatment is funded with state or federal funds shall only be referred to licensed recovery houses
• Courts shall give first consideration to licensed recovery houses when making residential recommendations

What This Means for Operators

If you plan to operate a purely private-pay model with no government referrals or funding, Pennsylvania does not require state-level DDAP licensing. However, this does not mean you can operate without any permits or oversight. Many cities and counties have their own group home, boarding home, or rooming house regulations that may require local permits, inspections, or licensing regardless of your funding model. Always check with your municipality’s code enforcement office and a local attorney to identify all applicable local requirements.

If you want to do any of the following, you must obtain DDAP licensing:

• Accept residents from treatment centers receiving state funding
• Work with Single County Authorities (SCAs)
• Access opioid settlement funding
• Receive court or probation referrals
• Accept residents with state-funded housing subsidies

Enforcement:

As of January 1, 2023, DDAP exercises enforcement authority to impose fines of up to $1,000 per day on persons who operate recovery houses receiving government funds without proper licensing. SCAs may only fund licensed recovery houses.

DDAP Licensing Requirements

The DDAP licensing application is submitted online through the DDAP portal with a $250 application fee (American Express and Discover not accepted).

Required Documentation for DDAP Licensing:

Document	Purpose
Ownership and Business Management form	Establishes ownership structure
Photo ID for 5%+ owners	Verifies ownership
Certificate of Occupancy Attestation	Confirms building compliance
Proof of Zoning Approval Attestation	Confirms residential use allowed
Floor plans with checklist compliance	Documents facility layout
Articles of incorporation/operating agreement	Legal business formation
Orientation handbook (house rules, fee schedule)	Documents resident expectations
Organizational structure and job descriptions	Shows staffing model
Fire-retardant mattress documentation	Safety compliance
PA State Police Criminal History Background Check	For all staff
Written policies and procedures	Operational compliance

Policy Requirements Under Chapter 717:

Your written policies must address:

• Prohibition on alcohol/drug use on premises with consequences
• Relapse protocols for staff and volunteers
• Criminal history requirements for house manager, staff, and volunteers
• Personnel policies and training requirements
• Resident rights and responsibilities
• Medication control and storage
• Financial transaction procedures
• Complaint handling procedures
• Safety protocols and emergency procedures
• Unusual incident reporting

Complaint and Fine Structure:

• $100 fine for each legitimate complaint filed
• Complaints can be made anonymously by residents, family, friends, or community members
• More than three legitimate complaints risks license revocation

DDAP offers free “Recovery House Application Workshop” sessions. Contact: ra-licensuredivision@pa.gov

What Triggers Additional Licensing

If you provide clinical treatment services, you will need additional licensure as a treatment facility. Understanding this boundary is critical for staying compliant.

Services Requiring a Treatment Facility License:

• Detoxification services
• Group or individual counseling/therapy
• Treatment planning
• Medication management
• Clinical assessments
• Educational sessions focused on addiction treatment

Services You Can Provide Without a Treatment License:

• Safe, drug-free housing environment
• Peer support and accountability
• House meetings about rules and responsibilities
• Drug and alcohol testing
• Transportation to external treatment and meetings
• Basic life skills support
• Structured living with curfews and house rules
• Connection to community recovery resources

PARR Certification: Voluntary Quality Standards

While DDAP licensing is the legal requirement for government-funded operations, PARR (Pennsylvania Alliance of Recovery Residences) provides voluntary certification that demonstrates quality and helps prepare for state licensing. Pursuing NARR certification through PARR is one of the strongest credibility signals you can build as a Pennsylvania operator.

What Is PARR?

Founded in 2011, PARR is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit and the official Pennsylvania affiliate of NARR (National Alliance for Recovery Residences). PARR certifies recovery residences based on national standards and provides:

• Certification at all four NARR levels
• Consultative support through the certification process
• Training and education for operators
• Advocacy for recovery housing interests
• Directory listing for certified homes

How PARR Certification Helps with DDAP Licensing

PARR-certified residences are better prepared for state licensing because they already meet most DDAP requirements. PARR provides hand-holding through the licensing process, compliance checklists, training and support, and guidance on meeting DDAP requirements. Many operators pursue both PARR certification and DDAP licensing to maximize credibility and funding opportunities.

NARR Certification Levels Through PARR

Level	Description	Staffing	Best For
Level I: Peer-Run	Democratic, self-governing	No paid staff	Oxford House model, experienced residents
Level II: Monitored	Administrative oversight	House manager	Most common for independent operators
Level III: Supervised	24/7 support available	Paid staff presence	Higher-needs residents
Level IV: Service Provider	Licensed treatment standards	Credentialed staff	Treatment organization-operated

Most independent operators pursue Level II certification as the starting point.

PARR Certification Process

1. Review Standards - Study the PARR Standard and NARR Standard 3.0
2. Submit Application - Apply online at parronline.org/application-process
3. Document Review - PARR reviews policies, procedures, and governance
4. On-Site Inspection - Inspector tours facility, interviews staff and residents
5. Training - Complete required training within 120 days
6. Certification Issuance - Post Resident Rights and Responsibilities in each location

Ongoing Requirements:

• Annual inspections
• Random audit inspections without advance notice
• Embed PARR Grievance form link on website
• Share Ethics Standards with all staff

Regional Support: WestPARR

Operators in Western Pennsylvania can also connect with WestPARR (Western Pennsylvania Alliance of Recovery Residences), which provides regional guidance and resources for recovery residence providers in the Pittsburgh area.

Step-by-Step: Opening a Sober Living Home in Pennsylvania

Step 1: Form Your Business Entity

Choosing the right business structure affects your liability protection, tax obligations, and eligibility for grants.

Structure	Pros	Cons	Best For
LLC	Liability protection, flexibility, pass-through taxation	Self-employment taxes	Most operators
S-Corp	Potential tax savings, liability protection	More complex, payroll requirements	Higher-revenue operations
Non-Profit 501(c)(3)	Grant eligibility, tax exemption, donations deductible	Complex setup, oversight requirements	Mission-driven, grant-focused operations
Sole Proprietorship	Simple setup	Personal liability exposure	Not recommended

Business Formation Steps:

1. Choose your business name - Search the PA Department of State database to ensure availability
2. File with PA Department of State - Submit Certificate of Organization online at dos.pa.gov
3. Obtain EIN from IRS - Apply free at irs.gov (required for business bank account)
4. Register with PA Department of Revenue - For tax purposes
5. Open business bank account - Keep business and personal finances completely separate
6. Set up accounting system - QuickBooks, Wave, or professional bookkeeper

Pennsylvania-Specific Considerations:

• Starting in 2025, LLCs and corporations must file Annual Reports with the Department of State
• Pennsylvania has corporate net income tax and personal income tax considerations
• Consider hiring a Pennsylvania business attorney for entity formation ($500-$1,500)

Step 2: Secure Funding

Starting a sober living home in Pennsylvania requires significant upfront capital. Understanding the full cost picture and available funding sources prevents undercapitalization, which is the most common reason new recovery homes fail.

Startup Cost Breakdown:

Expense Category	Low Estimate	High Estimate	Notes
Property (first/last/deposit or down payment)	$8,000	$50,000	Leasing vs. purchasing
Renovations and safety upgrades	$5,000	$25,000	Fire safety, accessibility
Furniture, beds, and equipment	$8,000	$20,000	Quality mattresses essential
Insurance (first year)	$4,000	$12,000	Liability, property
DDAP licensing fee	$250	$250	Fixed fee
PARR certification	$300	$600	Varies by size
Legal and professional fees	$2,000	$8,000	Entity formation, contracts
Marketing and technology	$2,000	$6,000	Website, management software
Operating capital (3-6 months)	$15,000	$40,000	Cover expenses before break-even
Total	$44,550	$161,850	Varies by market and approach

Pennsylvania Funding Sources

Opioid Settlement Funding:

Pennsylvania expects to receive approximately $2.2 billion in opioid settlement money distributed through 2038 via the Pennsylvania Opioid Misuse and Addiction Abatement Trust. Recovery housing is an approved use of settlement funds, making this the largest funding opportunity for Pennsylvania operators.

Key funding developments:

• Over $80 million spent on opioid remediation programs as of December 2024
• DDAP announced $2.5 million in grants specifically for linking individuals to licensed recovery houses
• Philadelphia allocated nearly $6 million to housing programs for people experiencing homelessness
• Allegheny County (Pittsburgh) allocated $20 million toward housing and substance use programs

DDAP Grant Opportunities:

DDAP and the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) have announced grants for licensed recovery houses:

• Grants capped at $50,000 each
• Focus on physical upgrades for compliance (including ADA)
• Check the DDAP newsroom for current opportunities

County-Level Funding:

Many Pennsylvania counties have their own opioid settlement allocations:

• Delaware County: $62.5 million settlement, accepting RFPs for 2025 grants
• Philadelphia: $80 million received, with significant housing allocations
• Allegheny County: $7.2 million annually through 2038

Contact your Single County Authority (SCA) for local funding opportunities.

Federal Grants:

• SAMHSA Recovery Housing Grants - $50,000-$500,000 for qualifying programs
• HUD Recovery Housing Program - State-administered funds for transitional housing
• DOJ Second Chance Act - For facilities serving people leaving incarceration

For comprehensive funding strategies across all sources, see our grants for recovery homes guide.

Step 3: Find the Right Property

Property selection determines your operating costs, resident experience, and referral network potential. The right property in the right market can be the difference between a struggling home and a thriving one.

Property Costs by Major Market:

City	Avg Monthly Rent (5-6 BR)	Purchase Price Range	Market Characteristics
Philadelphia	$2,500-$4,000	$300K-$500K	Largest market, strong treatment infrastructure, high opioid crisis impact
Pittsburgh	$1,800-$3,000	$200K-$350K	Growing market, strong healthcare sector, $20M opioid settlement for housing
Allentown/Lehigh Valley	$2,000-$3,600	$250K-$400K	Strategic location, growing demand, 4.77% rent increase year-over-year
Harrisburg	$1,600-$2,800	$180K-$300K	State capital, affordable entry, government/healthcare employment
Scranton	$1,400-$2,400	$150K-$275K	University town, affordable, northeastern PA hub
Reading	$1,400-$2,200	$140K-$250K	Underserved market, affordable entry
Erie	$1,200-$2,000	$120K-$220K	Northwestern PA, lowest competition

Ideal Property Characteristics:

Location Factors:

• Residential neighborhood with good reputation
• Near public transportation (SEPTA in Philadelphia, PAT in Pittsburgh, LANTA in Lehigh Valley)
• Close to employment opportunities
• Proximity to treatment centers and recovery meetings
• Access to grocery stores and essential services

Property Features:

• 4-6 bedrooms for optimal occupancy (verify your municipality’s occupancy limits for unrelated adults)
• Multiple bathrooms (aim for 1 per 3-4 residents)
• Large common areas for house meetings
• Adequate parking and outdoor space
• Separate room for office/intake interviews
• Fire-retardant mattresses (required for licensing)

What to Avoid:

• HOA-restricted communities
• Properties near schools or daycares (perception issues)
• High-crime neighborhoods
• Properties with major deferred maintenance
• Locations far from public transit and services

Lease vs. Purchase Decision:

Factor	Leasing	Purchasing
Initial Capital	Lower ($8K-$15K)	Higher ($40K-$80K down)
Monthly Cost	Fixed rent	Mortgage + maintenance
Flexibility	Can relocate easily	Long-term commitment
Equity Building	None	Build ownership stake
Landlord Approval	Required for use	Full control
Best For	First-time operators, testing markets	Established operators, long-term investment

Step 4: Navigate Zoning and Fair Housing

Pennsylvania sober living homes are protected under the federal Fair Housing Act, but understanding local requirements is essential to avoid costly missteps.

Fair Housing Act Protections:

People in recovery from substance use disorders are considered disabled under the Fair Housing Act. This means:

• Cities cannot zone out recovery residences from residential areas
• Sober living homes must be treated the same as any family residence
• Spacing requirements between recovery homes may be challenged
• Operators cannot be required to get special use permits not required of families

Practical Zoning Guidelines:

Many Pennsylvania municipalities set limits on how many unrelated adults may live together in single-family residential zones, and these limits vary significantly. Some municipalities allow up to 6 unrelated adults without special permits, while others set the threshold at 3 or 4 and define “family” differently. You must verify your specific municipality’s occupancy limits and definition of “family” with a local land use attorney and your city’s zoning office before signing a lease or purchasing a property.

For homes exceeding your municipality’s occupancy threshold, you may need:

• Conditional use permit
• Property in multi-family zoned area
• Variances or special exceptions

DDAP licensing requires a Certificate of Occupancy Attestation confirming your building meets local codes. Obtain this from your local building department before applying for licensing.

Building Positive Community Relations:

Proactive neighbor relations prevent NIMBYism from derailing your operation:

• Introduce yourself to neighbors before opening
• Provide your contact information for concerns
• Maintain excellent property appearance
• Address any issues immediately
• Enforce quiet hours and visitor policies
• Consider a community advisory board

Step 5: Obtain Required Credentials

DDAP Licensing Process:

1. Prepare Documentation - Gather all required documents (see licensing requirements table above)
2. Create Online Account - Visit the DDAP licensing portal
3. Complete Application - Submit all documentation online
4. Pay Fee - $250 application fee
5. Await Review - DDAP reviews application and may request additional information
6. Site Inspection - DDAP may conduct facility inspection
7. Receive License - License issued upon approval

PARR Certification Process:

1. Review Standards - Study PARR Standard and NARR Standard 3.0
2. Submit Application - Apply at parronline.org
3. Document Review - PARR reviews materials
4. On-Site Inspection - Facility tour, staff and resident interviews
5. Complete Training - Within 120 days of notification
6. Certification Issued - Valid with annual inspections

Contact Your Single County Authority:

Your local SCA is a critical resource for understanding local licensing nuances, funding opportunities, referral relationships, and treatment provider connections.

Step 6: Create Policies and House Rules

Pennsylvania regulations require comprehensive written policies. Develop these before accepting your first resident.

Required Policy Areas Under 28 Pa. Code Chapter 717:

Sobriety and Drug Testing:

• Zero tolerance drug and alcohol policy
• Random testing schedule (minimum weekly recommended)
• Testing methods and chain of custody
• Consequences for positive tests
• Relapse response protocols (required for staff too)

Personnel Policies:

• PA State Police criminal background check requirements
• Staff training requirements
• Relapse policies for recovering staff
• Job descriptions and qualifications

Resident Rights and Responsibilities:

• Privacy protections
• Grievance procedures
• Fair housing compliance
• Confidentiality of resident information
• Requirements for program participation

Financial Policies:

• Weekly/monthly rent amounts and payment due dates
• Late fee structure
• Security deposit requirements
• Refund policies
• Financial transaction documentation

Safety Protocols:

• Fire safety compliance
• Emergency response plans
• Unusual incident reporting
• Medication control and storage

House Rules:

• Curfew and overnight policies
• Visitor rules and hours
• Cleaning and chore responsibilities
• Noise levels and quiet hours
• Vehicle and parking rules

Step 7: Hire Staff

Staffing requirements depend on your operational model and certification level.

Common Staff Roles and Pennsylvania Pay Ranges:

Role	Responsibilities	Pay Range
House Manager	Day-to-day operations, resident support, rule enforcement	$38,000-$55,000/year
Assistant Manager	Coverage, resident support, documentation	$30,000-$42,000/year
Peer Recovery Specialist	Resident mentoring, recovery support	$16-$24/hour
Administrative Support	Billing, documentation, phone	$35,000-$45,000/year

Pennsylvania Background Check Requirements:

Under Chapter 717, you must complete PA State Police criminal history background checks for your house manager, all staff members, and all volunteers. These must be completed before staff begin working at the recovery house.

Certification Options:

While Pennsylvania does not require specific certifications for sober living staff, these credentials add value:

• Certified Recovery Specialist (CRS) - Pennsylvania certification for peer support workers
• NARR Certified Recovery Residence Administrator (CRRA) - National credential for house managers
• PARR Required Training - For PARR-certified homes

Many successful house managers are themselves in long-term recovery. Consider live-in house managers to reduce costs and increase presence. Train all staff on fair housing, confidentiality, and emergency procedures, and document all training for licensing compliance.

Step 8: Build Your Referral Network

Success in Pennsylvania depends on building strong relationships with referral sources. DDAP licensing unlocks most of these channels.

Priority Referral Sources:

Single County Authorities (SCAs):

• Primary gateway to government-funded referrals
• Contact your local SCA
• DDAP licensing required for SCA referrals

Treatment Centers:

• Residential treatment facilities in your area
• Outpatient programs and detox facilities
• Hospital substance abuse programs

Criminal Justice:

• County probation departments and parole officers
• Drug courts (courts must give first consideration to licensed homes)
• Pre-trial diversion programs
• County jails with reentry programs

Healthcare:

• Hospital emergency departments
• Community mental health centers
• Primary care physicians
• Federally Qualified Health Centers

Building Relationships:

1. Research facilities in your area - Create a list of all treatment centers and referral sources
2. Ensure you are licensed - Most referral sources will only work with DDAP-licensed homes
3. Schedule introduction meetings - Meet with discharge planners, case managers, and SCA staff
4. Provide professional materials - Brochure, business cards, intake requirements
5. Offer facility tours - Invite referral sources to see your operation
6. Maintain regular contact - Follow up monthly, share success stories (with permission)
7. Join industry associations - PARR, WestPARR, local recovery community organizations

Step 9: Set Up Operations

Efficient systems from day one prevent the operational chaos that derails many new recovery homes.

Management Software:

Modern sober living operations require technology to handle the administrative complexity of licensing compliance, billing, and resident documentation. Recovery residence software helps you manage:

• Resident admissions processing
• Bed management and occupancy tracking
• Billing and payment processing
• Drug testing result documentation
• Incident reporting and logs
• Housing notes and documentation
• Staff communication tools

Drug Testing Supplies:

• Instant test cups (THC, opioids, benzodiazepines, amphetamines, cocaine minimum)
• Confirmation lab account for contested results
• Secure storage for samples
• Documentation forms

Office Essentials:

• Resident file system (physical or digital)
• Intake paperwork and forms
• Computer and printer
• Secure Wi-Fi network
• Phone line for inquiries

House Supplies:

• Quality fire-retardant mattresses (required for licensing)
• Common area furniture
• Kitchen equipment and dishes
• Cleaning supplies
• First aid kit
• Fire extinguishers
• Smoke and CO detectors

Pennsylvania Insurance Requirements

Proper insurance coverage protects your investment and is a prerequisite for most referral partnerships and licensing compliance.

Essential Coverage for Pennsylvania Operators:

Coverage Type	Recommended Amount	Annual Cost
General Liability	$1M-$2M	$2,500-$5,000
Property Insurance	Replacement value	$1,500-$4,000
Professional Liability	$500K-$1M	$1,000-$2,500
Workers’ Compensation	State minimum	$2,000-$5,000 (if employees)
Umbrella Policy	$1M-$5M	$500-$1,500

Pennsylvania-Specific Considerations:

• Flood insurance for properties near rivers (Susquehanna, Delaware, Ohio watersheds)
• Winter weather considerations (heating system failures, ice damage)
• Business interruption coverage for unexpected closures
• Budget for higher heating costs October through April ($150-$300/month additional)

Common Challenges in Pennsylvania

NIMBYism and Community Opposition

Some Pennsylvania neighborhoods resist recovery housing. Prevention strategies include choosing properties carefully, introducing yourself to neighbors early, maintaining impeccable property appearance, and enforcing strict visitor and noise policies.

If opposition occurs, document all interactions, reference Fair Housing Act protections, contact the HUD Philadelphia Regional Office at (215) 656-0500, and consult an attorney specializing in fair housing law. PARR can also provide support and resources.

Competition from Unethical Operators

Pennsylvania’s licensing requirements help distinguish quality operators from bad actors:

• Pursue and maintain both DDAP licensing and PARR certification
• Maintain transparent operations and document outcomes
• Build strong referral relationships based on quality
• Report unlicensed operators receiving government funds to DDAP

Staffing Challenges

Finding quality staff requires effort in any market:

• Offer competitive wages aligned with the ranges in this guide
• Consider housing as part of compensation for live-in managers
• Partner with recovery community organizations for recruitment
• Develop internal training programs with clear advancement paths

Pennsylvania Resources

Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP)

• Main Website: pa.gov/agencies/ddap
• Licensing Information: pa.gov/agencies/ddap/for-professionals/licensing
• Apply for License: pa.gov/services/ddap/apply-to-become-a-licensed-recovery-house
• County Drug and Alcohol Offices (SCAs): pa.gov/en/agencies/ddap/treatment-and-support/county-drug-and-alcohol-offices.html
• Licensing Email: ra-licensuredivision@pa.gov
• Phone: (717) 783-8675

PARR and WestPARR

• PARR Website: parronline.org
• PARR Application Process: parronline.org/application-process
• WestPARR Website: westparr.org
• NARR Affiliate Page: narronline.org/affiliate/pennsylvania-association-of-recovery-residences

Funding and Legal Resources

• Pennsylvania Opioid Trust: paopioidtrust.org
• 28 Pa. Code Chapter 717: pacodeandbulletin.gov
• PA Department of State (Business Formation): dos.pa.gov
• Federal Grants: grants.gov
• HUD Philadelphia Regional Office: (215) 656-0500

Your Next Steps

Starting a sober living home in Pennsylvania offers opportunities for both financial sustainability and meaningful community impact. The state’s clear regulatory framework, substantial opioid settlement funding, and strong need for quality recovery housing create favorable conditions for dedicated operators.

Immediate Action Items:

1. Research Your Target Market - Visit existing facilities, meet with treatment providers, and assess competition in your area
2. Contact Your Local SCA - Build a relationship with your Single County Authority
3. Develop Your Business Plan - Use the cost estimates and market data in this guide
4. Form Your Business Entity - LLC formation through PA Department of State
5. Begin PARR Certification Process - Review standards and prepare documentation
6. Apply for DDAP Licensing - If you plan to accept government referrals or funding
7. Monitor Funding Opportunities - Watch the DDAP newsroom and county opioid settlement announcements

Long-term Success Strategies:

• Build deep relationships with SCAs, treatment providers, and courts
• Invest in quality management systems and staff training
• Maintain both DDAP licensing and PARR certification
• Focus on outcomes and resident success
• Plan for expansion once your first facility stabilizes

Pennsylvania needs more quality recovery housing. Position yourself now to capture this opportunity while making a lasting difference in people’s lives.

How Sober Living App Can Help You Succeed

At Sober Living App, we have helped hundreds of operators across Pennsylvania and nationwide build successful recovery housing businesses. Our comprehensive management platform handles the operational complexity of DDAP compliance, billing, and resident documentation so you can focus on creating supportive environments for recovery.

Our Platform Includes:

• Comprehensive Admissions Management - Streamline intake with digital applications, document collection, and resident onboarding workflows
• Intelligent Bed Management - Track occupancy, waiting lists, and room assignments in real-time from any device
• Automated Billing and Operations - Handle rent collection, late fees, and financial reporting with integrated payment processing
• Housing Documentation - Maintain detailed records for DDAP licensing inspections and PARR certification
• Resident and Staff Communication - Keep everyone connected with announcements, messaging, and incident reporting

Every feature is designed specifically for recovery housing operations, with input from successful operators across Pennsylvania.

Ready to Get Started?

Claim your free trial today and see why Pennsylvania’s most successful sober living operators choose Sober Living App to power their operations.