October 21st 2024.
There is a growing trend among European cities to impose limitations on short-term rentals. It seems that governments are responding to complaints from locals about issues such as housing shortages, noise disturbances, and the breakdown of communities. Platforms like Airbnb and booking.com were initially embraced by tourists as a budget-friendly option for accommodation, while also allowing homeowners to earn some extra income. However, it appears that these platforms have overstayed their welcome.
Many city leaders and governments have implemented restrictions on short-term rentals, although none have outright banned them (at least not yet). Popular destinations like London, Edinburgh, Paris, Czechia, and Rome have all adopted their own set of regulations. And now, Seville, Spain has joined the list by committing to introduce short-term rental licenses. These licenses will limit the number of properties that can be rented out to tourists to no more than 10% of the city's total properties.
If you're planning a trip to Seville, you should be aware of these new restrictions. Despite its nickname as the "frying pan" of Spain due to its hot temperatures, the local government is cracking down on tourists looking to enjoy the city's warm climate. While Seville welcomes around 3 million visitors per year, the city council recently voted to impose new regulations on short-term rentals.
London, known for its bustling tourism industry, has also implemented restrictions on short-term rentals. Hosts in the capital must adhere to the 90-day rule, which limits the number of days a property can be rented out to 90 days per calendar year. Trying to bypass this rule can result in hefty fines of up to £20,000, and these regulations are strictly enforced.
The city of love, Paris, is another popular tourist destination that has implemented regulations on short-term rentals. Hosts must register their property with the local authorities before listing it on platforms like Airbnb. Additionally, they can only rent out their primary residence for a maximum of 120 days per year. However, they can rent out a room in their home year-round and rent out any secondary residences year-round as well, as long as they inform the city.
Meanwhile, in Edinburgh, Scotland, all hosts are now required to apply for a license from the council before renting out their property on a short-term basis. These licenses must be obtained by January 1, 2025, and come at a cost of at least £120 per occupant. Additionally, hosts must obtain "change of use" planning permission before applying for a license, which can be difficult for homeowners in communal buildings.
In Czechia, the government is giving municipalities the power to limit Airbnb-style accommodations. This could include capping the number of days a property can be rented out and setting a minimum amount of space per guest. Homeowners must also register their property and guest information on an e-platform called eTurista, and obtain a registration number to display on their online listing. These new regulations are set to take effect next July.
In Rome, there has been a significant increase in short-term rentals, with over 21,000 active listings in 2023. As a result, the city has implemented strict regulations for hosts. To rent out a property on a short-term basis, hosts must first register with the city and adhere to their rental regulations. Only detached single-family homes are allowed to be used for vacation rentals in the city center, while multi-unit buildings have limits on the number of units that can be rented out.
The rise of short-term rentals and the impact on local communities has become a growing concern. According to Marina Novelli, a professor of marketing and tourism at Nottingham University Business School, there needs to be regulation in this market, as it has "spun out of control." However, she also notes that platforms like Airbnb and booking.com are not solely responsible for the problem of "overtourism."
Novelli believes that a balance must be struck between regulating short-term rentals and maintaining the well-being of the community. While she welcomes regulations at the local, regional, and national levels, she acknowledges that a one-size-fits-all approach may not be effective. Each destination has its unique issues, and it is crucial to assess and implement regulations accordingly. At the end of the day, both the local community and tourism have a role in the well-being of a city.
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