Restrictions on operation of short-term rentals

The expansion of short-term rentals, such as those facilitated by platforms like Airbnb, has led to various international restrictions imposed by governments and local authorities. These restrictions aim to balance tourism growth, protect housing for permanent residents, and avoid overtourism. The most common restrictions include:

1. Limits on Rental Days

• Maximum rental duration per year: In many cities, there is a cap on the number of days a property can be rented out through short-term rental platforms.
  • For example, in Paris, owners can rent their property for up to 120 days per year.
  • In Barcelona, rentals shorter than 31 days require a special permit.

2. Mandatory Operating Licence

• In many regions, owners must obtain a licence from local authorities to operate as short-term rental providers.
  • In Amsterdam, a special licence is required for short-term rentals.
  • In New York, strict regulations apply to apartments rented for fewer than 30 days.

• 3. Tax Obligations

  • Local authorities impose taxes on property owners and platforms.
    • For example, in France, owners must pay the "tourist tax."
    • In Singapore, high taxes apply to properties used for short-term rentals.

• 4. Zoning Restrictions

  • Some cities restrict short-term rentals to specific zones.
    • In Venice, short-term rentals are limited to non-tourist areas to reduce overtourism.
    • In Tokyo, rentals are permitted only in commercial zones, not in purely residential areas.

• 5. Regulations for Multi-Unit Buildings

  • In buildings with multiple tenants, many countries require majority consent from residents for short-term rentals to operate.
    • In Australia, apartment buildings can ban short-term rentals through regulations.

• 6. Housing Protection

  • To prevent a reduction in housing availability for permanent residents:
    • In Berlin, only primary residences can be rented out, not additional properties.
    • In Dublin, restrictions apply to properties not used as primary residences.

• 7. Addressing Overtourism

  • In popular tourist destinations, authorities limit the number of listings on platforms.
    • In Japan, a 2018 law restricts short-term rentals to 180 days per year.

• 8. Platform Compliance

  • Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are required to cooperate with local authorities to enforce restrictions.
    • For example, in San Francisco, listings without a permit are automatically removed.

These restrictions vary by region and are frequently updated as cities strive to balance economic growth through tourism with the needs of residents. For any short-term rental activity, it’s important to be aware of and comply with local regulations.

GIORGOS KATSAITIS