Battle Over Short-Term Lets as Licensing Deadline Nears

8/30/2023

The Scottish Bed and Breakfast Association says nearly two-thirds of Scottish bed and breakfast owners are considering shutting their doors over restrictions on short-term lets (STLs), having urged First Minister Humza Yousaf to delay the rules. However, Yousaf has said the scheme is publicly supported and is the "right thing to do." STL operators must apply for a license by Oct. 1 under the new law, with some property owners potentially facing several hundred pounds in application fees. All STL accommodations must be licensed, with non-applicants facing a maximum fine of £2,500. Councils manage the license fees, which will vary depending on the local authority, property size, and type of rental. The Association of Scotland's Self-Caterers reported in March 2022 that the estimated average license fee in Scotland would be £514 per property for three years, while national requirements like displaying energy performance ratings in ads add to operators' burden. B&B owners are concerned the new STL legislation could threaten the future of their business.

BBC News (08/25/23) Craig Williams

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