Is Airbnb legal in Central Coast?

In Central Coast, New South Wales (NSW), Airbnb hosts must adhere to a set of regulations that are part of a statewide framework governing short-term rental accommodation (STRA). The key requirements include:

1. Registration: All STRA properties must be registered on the NSW Government’s STRA register. This entails paying a registration fee of $65 for the first year and an annual renewal fee of $25.

2. Day Limit: Hosted and non-hosted STRA listings can operate year-round across most of NSW, but there are restrictions for unhosted listings in certain areas, limiting them to 180 days per year. Bookings longer than 21 consecutive days are exempt from this limit.

3. Fire Safety Standards: Hosts must comply with fire safety regulations and confirm this upon registration.

4. Code of Conduct: Effective from December 2020, the NSW Code of Conduct mandates behavioral standards for hosts, guests, and booking platforms. This includes obligations to maintain accurate listings, hold appropriate liability insurance, and provide guests with emergency contact information.

5. Strata By-laws: In strata properties, owners' corporations can adopt by-laws that might restrict or prohibit STRA, especially in units that are not the host's principal place of residence.

6. Exclusion Register: A system exists to exclude repeat offenders from participating in STRA for serious breaches of the Code. This operates on a two-strike basis, potentially leading to a five-year exclusion.

Fines and penalties can be imposed for violations of these laws, including the suspension or revocation of registration. Hosts are encouraged to stay informed about their obligations and conduct hosting activities responsibly to avoid penalties.