Short term lets legislation updates
Find out about changes to legislation and when they were implemented
September 2024 update
On 30 August 2024 The Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982 (Licensing of Short Term Lets) Amendment Order 2024 came into force. The Order introduces a number of additions and amendments aiming to support businesses and improve the safety of guests. Amongst other updates, the Amendment Order has added two additional parts to existing Mandatory Condition 12 and added to our checklist (PDF) [393KB] .
(g) instructions as to what guests should do in the event that the carbon monoxide alarm sounds
(h) if there is a mobile gas cabinet heater in the premises, safety instructions as to the operation and movement of that mobile heater.
March 2023 update
The Scottish Parliament has of 1 March 2023, approved legislation to extend the deadline by which existing short-term let hosts (those operating prior to 1 October 2022) must apply for a short-term let licence by 6 months to 1 October 2023. This has been done in recognition of the wider economic circumstances of the cost of living crisis that is placing pressure on existing short-term let hosts and businesses.
During this period you can operate without a licence (by continuing to take bookings and receiving guests) unless your licence has been determined, and your application rejected. You will need to be able to prove that you used the property for short-term lets, for example through evidence of bookings and payments, as part of your initial application.
New hosts
If you have not been operating as a short-term let host prior to 1 October 2022, you must apply for a licence now. You must obtain a licence before taking bookings or receiving guests.
