Is Airbnb legal in Glasgow City?

Airbnb Regulations in Glasgow: A 2023 Guide for Hosts

Glasgow has established specific regulations governing short-term rentals, particularly affecting hosts listing properties on platforms like Airbnb. Effective October 1, 2022, all short-term let properties must be licensed by the Glasgow City Council. Hosts who were active before this date had until October 1, 2023, to apply for their licenses, while new hosts cannot accept guests until they secure the necessary licensing.

Licensing Requirements

To obtain a short-term rental license, hosts must submit a variety of documents, including: - Planning Permission or Certificate of Lawfulness: Proof that the property complies with local regulations. - Floor Plan: A detailed layout of the property. - Evidence of Prior Operation: Documentation proving the property was active as a short-term let before October 2022 (for existing hosts). - Owner Consent: Required if the applicant is not the property owner.

Licensing fees vary from £125 to £400, depending on property size and type. Different license types include home sharing, home letting, and secondary letting.

Safety and Compliance Standards

The regulations mandate that all licensed properties meet specific safety criteria, including: - Valid energy performance certificates - Compliance with fire and gas safety regulations - Public liability insurance - Risk assessments for fire and Legionella

Failure to obtain a license can result in significant penalties, including fines of up to £2,500 and disqualification from applying for a license for one year.

Taxes and Obligations

Hosts must also navigate various tax obligations, including: - Council Tax: Typically applicable unless the property qualifies for business rates. - Business Rates: May apply if the property is rented for over 140 days a year, treating it as a commercial entity. - Income Tax: Rental income is subject to taxation, although hosts can benefit from the "Rent a Room" scheme, allowing them to earn up to £7,500 tax-free from their primary residence.

Enforcement and Community Feedback

Enforcement of short-term rental regulations in Glasgow appears to be complaint-driven, with the council taking action primarily in response to reported disturbances or unlicensed operations. Some hosts have expressed concerns over the fairness of these regulations, while others support the intent to create a safer, more accountable rental environment.

As Glasgow continues to refine its approach to short-term rentals, hosts must remain proactive in understanding and complying with all regulations to operate legally and profitably in the city.