Is Airbnb legal in Istanbul?

In Istanbul, Airbnb regulations have undergone significant changes following new laws that aim to carefully balance tourism benefits with local community interests. Key elements include:

1. 100-Day Limit: Property owners are restricted to renting out their properties for a maximum of 100 days annually for short-term tourism purposes. This cap is crucial for maintaining the character of residential areas and balancing tourism and long-term housing needs.

2. Mandatory Permits: To legally operate an Airbnb, property owners must secure a Tourism Accommodation Rental Permit. This permit involves a rigorous process that requires unanimous approval from all apartment owners for buildings with multiple units and adherence to local zoning laws.

3. Permit Fees and Penalties: The application for the permit includes fees determined by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, with fines reaching up to 1,000,000 Turkish Lira for non-compliance or failure to obtain the necessary permits.

4. Zoning and Ownership Restrictions: For apartment buildings with more than three units, only 25% can be used for short-term rentals, unless the entire ownership is secured. Additionally, those wishing to rent more than five units in the same building face additional requirements, such as a business license.

5. Exceptions and Loopholes: Certain high-quality residences with amenities like security or a gym, and single transactions that exceed 100 days, might be exempt from some of these restrictions, pending approval from relevant authorities.

6. Role of Travel Agencies: Rentals conducted by non-owners must go through (A) group travel agencies. This ensures professional management and oversight, adding a layer of security to the rental process.

7. Reporting and Compliance: Hosts are obligated to comply with the Identity Notification Law, necessitating the collection and reporting of guest information to authorities, and they must maintain records of rental activities to avoid penalties.

This regulatory framework demands meticulous compliance from hosts, with robust inspection systems in place to monitor adherence, reflecting Turkey's commitment to regulating its burgeoning short-term rental market while promoting sustainable tourism.