Is Airbnb legal in Aberdeen City?

In Aberdeen City, the regulation of short-term lets (STLs) is governed by a licensing scheme that was initiated on October 1, 2022, following the enactment of the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982 (Licensing of Short Term Lets) Order 2022. The implementation timeline for these regulations allows existing hosts until April 1, 2024, to secure a license, while new operators must obtain a license before commencing short-term rental activities.

Key Aspects of Aberdeen's STL Regulations:

1. Types of Licenses: There are four distinct license categories depending on the nature of the short-term letting:

   • Secondary Letting: Renting out a property not meant for permanent residence.
   • Home Letting: Letting part of the host's primary residence while they are away.
   • Home Sharing: Hosting guests in the primary residence while still living there.
   • Combination of Home Letting and Sharing.

2. Application Requirements: To apply for a license, hosts must:

   • Complete an application form and submit several supporting documents, including a floor plan, proof of property ownership or landlord consent, and relevant safety certificates (gas and electrical).
   • Ensure compliance with safety standards, such as installing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and obtaining necessary insurances.

3. Fees: Licensing fees vary by occupancy and range from approximately £420 to £2,980, depending on the capacity of guests.

4. Safety and Standards: Properties must meet minimum safety standards as part of the licensing conditions, ensuring guest safety through effective fire safety measures and living conditions.

5. Planning Permission: Depending on the location of the property, planning permission may be necessary, particularly if the property falls within designated control areas.

6. Taxation: Hosts must collect a Transient Visitor Levy of £2 per room per night, in addition to adhering to other tax obligations, including income tax and potentially VAT for higher earnings.

7. Enforcement: The Aberdeen City Council asserts strict enforcement of these regulations, with significant penalties for non-compliance, including fines and possible bans on collecting rental payments.

8. Public Register: The Council maintains a publicly accessible register of licensed short-term lets to ensure transparency and compliance.

In summary, while the regulations may present initial challenges for hosts in terms of compliance and documentation, they ultimately serve to promote safe and responsible short-term letting in Aberdeen, enhancing the experience for both hosts and guests while supporting local tourism initiatives. For assistance or further guidance, hosts may contact the Aberdeen City Council's dedicated short-term let licensing team via email.