Short Lets Licensing - consultation until early Augus...

A council is one of the first in the UK to consult on a licensing scheme for AirBnb style short lets.

The Highland Council is consulting local communities, businesses and the public on a draft policy statement beginning short let licensing from October 1.

The short term let licensing scheme will apply to a wide range of accommodation including self-catered properties, B&B’s, guest houses, glamping pods and yurts.

The licensing scheme was brought in by the Scottish Government with the aim to ensure short lets are safe, to address issues faced by neighbours, and to facilitate local authorities in knowing and understanding what is happening in their area and handling complaints effectively.

The online public consultation on the draft policy and the proposed additional conditions for short term lets runs until August 5 and the link to take part is here.

Comments from the consultation will be discussed by the council on September 6.

A council spokesperson says: “Due to a change in legislation, all local authorities are required to open a licensing scheme for short term lets by 1 October this year.

“The legislation aims to make sure that the economic and tourism benefits from short term lets are balanced with the needs and concerns of local communities.

“This is going to be a significant change for anyone who rents out accommodation, so I encourage people to have a look at the draft policy and get back to us with comments before the consultation ends."

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