Short-Term Let Regulations in Scotland – Frequently Asked Questions (Updated August 2024)

The Scottish Government has introduced a licensing regime for short-term lets in Scotland. Anyone looking to operate a short-term let for the first time from 1 October 2022 will need a licence before they do so. Those who are already operating short-term lets before 1 October 2022 must apply for a licence by 1 October 2023 if they wish to continue doing so. It will be a criminal offence punishable by a fine of up to £2,500 to operate a short-term let without a licence. This is enforced by Police Scotland.

Existing short-term letting operators should consider the potential planning requirements as well as checking whether their property meets the required licensing standards. For those considering entering the short-term letting market, the additional cost of a licence and potentially planning permission should be taken into account. If buying a property, they should consider what information or evidence the seller might provide to allow short-term letting to continue, or indeed begin.

Legislation pertaining to Short-Term Lets:

• The Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982 (Licensing of Short-Term Lets) Order 2022
• The Town and Country Planning (Short-Term Let Control Areas) (Scotland) Amendment Regulations 2022

The Scottish Government has provided guidance (updated June 2023):

• Short term lets – licensing scheme part 1: guidance for hosts and operators
• Short term lets – licensing scheme part 2: supplementary guidance for licensing authorities, letting agencies and platforms

Download the Frequently Asked Questions document (updated August 2024) below, to find out more.