Anyone who operated a short-term let before 1 October 2022 AND has had an application accepted before 1 October 2023, can still accept bookings and guests until an application is determined.
Owners who started operations after 1 October 2022 cannot begin trading until they receive their licence.
If as an existing host, you have failed to apply for a licence before 1 October 2023, you will be unable to accept bookings and guests from 1 October 2023 onwards, until a licence has been granted
Overview
The Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982 (Licensing of Short-term Lets) Order 2022 was passed in January 2022 and came into force on 1 March 2022.
The effect of that Order was that from 1 October 2022, the use of accommodation for a short-term let was an activity for which a licence is required under the terms of the 1982 Act.
In light of the decision of the Scottish Parliament on 1 March 2023, the deadline by which existing hosts and operators must apply for a licence has been extended from 1 April 2023 to 1 October 2023.
The aims of the licensing scheme are to:
- ensure all short-term lets are safe;
- facilitate licensing authorities in knowing and understanding what is happening in their area; and
- assist with handling complaints and address issues faced by neighbours effectively.