Is Airbnb legal in Bordeaux?

Airbnb Regulations in Bordeaux: An Overview

Bordeaux, a city renowned for its historical significance and vibrant culture, has implemented strict regulations on short-term rentals, primarily influenced by the rise of platforms like Airbnb. The city's efforts, initiated in 2018, aimed to address concerns over housing availability for residents and the competitive edge that short-term rentals posed against hoteliers.

Key Regulations

1. * Rental Duration Limit: Property owners are restricted to renting their homes on Airbnb for a maximum of *120 days per year. If this limit is reached, the listing is automatically suspended until the following year.

2. Registration Requirement: Hosts must register their short-term rentals with the Bordeaux Town Hall to obtain a registration number. This measure facilitates tracking seasonal rentals and helps prevent potential abuses.

3. Changes for Secondary Residences: Owners wishing to rent out a secondary residence must seek authorization to change the use of their property from residential to commercial, thus adhering to the guidelines.

4. Impacts of Legislation: The regulations have contributed to a noticeable decrease in the number of entire homes listed on Airbnb (a reduction of approximately 30% between 2019 and 2022) while encouraging a return of some properties to the long-term rental market.

Assessing the Impact

Five years after these regulations were put into place, the initial assessments indicate a positive outcome: - Return of Units to Long-Term Market: Around four homes have transitioned back from short-term to long-term rentals, thanks to these measures. - Stable Rental Prices: Despite the decrease in available rentals, the average nightly rate in Bordeaux has remained stable, reflecting ongoing demand with an average occupancy rate of 77%. - Revenue From Tourist Tax: The city has benefited financially, with tax revenue from Airbnb amounting to €1.3 million in 2022, showcasing the continued popularity of seasonal rentals despite regulatory constraints.

Challenges Ahead

While the regulations have shown some success in rebalancing the rental market, challenges remain. Rental tensions still persist due to the disparity between demand and supply for year-round residences. The overall landscape of Bordeaux's rental market continues to be influenced by various external factors, including the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and evolving tenant preferences.

In summary, Bordeaux's approach to regulating Airbnb has effectively brought about significant changes aimed at protecting long-term housing availability without completely stifling short-term rental opportunities. The regulations have thus become a framework within which the city can manage its unique blend of tourist activity and residential needs.