Is Airbnb legal in Hobart?

In Greater Hobart, Tasmania, the regulation of Airbnb and similar short-stay accommodations is shaped by a mix of local council guidelines and broader state legislation. Here's a brief overview based on the latest data:

1. Definition and Requirements: Airbnb is classified under "visitor accommodation," which refers to the temporary rental of properties to guests. Hosts must register with their local council to obtain a permit, unless they qualify for an exemption, such as renting their primary residence when temporarily away or listing no more than four bedrooms.

2. Permit Process: If a property does not meet exemption criteria, hosts must apply for a permit through the local council. The application includes submission of the property’s certificate of title, and a visitor management plan may be required, particularly for larger properties or those within strata schemes.

3. Council Amendments: Recently, the Hobart City Council has taken steps to limit the approval of new whole-house short-stay accommodations in residential areas. This move aims to increase the availability of long-term rental properties and address concerns regarding housing shortages in the region.

4. Location-Specific Limitations: While current regulations may restrict whole-home rentals in certain residential zones, properties within commercial or mixed-use zones may still qualify for permits. The council removed new permit options for inner-city areas to strike a balance between tourism needs and local housing demand.

5. Differential Rating: Properties registered as short-stay accommodations may be subject to a different rating system by the council, which could affect how much hosts pay in council rates.

This regulatory framework reflects ongoing attempts by Greater Hobart authorities to manage the balance between tourism growth and the residential housing market while ensuring compliance and accountability among hosts. For more detailed guidance, prospective hosts should refer directly to the City of Hobart’s planning guidelines and the Tasmanian Government's regulations on visitor accommodation.