Is Airbnb legal in Montpellier?

Airbnb is legal in Montpellier, and the city has specific regulations for hosts looking to operate short-term rentals. The main rules include:

1. Registration Requirement: Hosts must register their property as a furnished apartment with the Montpellier town hall.

2. Rental Duration Limit: Renting out a primary residence is limited to a maximum of 120 days per year. For secondary residences, hosts are allowed to rent only one property per fiscal household and must declare their rental activity to the city.

3. Different Rental Scenarios:

   • Renting a single room in your primary residence does not require registration.
   • Bed and breakfasts, hotels, and properties rented under a "bail mobilité" (mobility lease) for at least one month are also exempt from registration.

4. Tax Obligations: Hosts must report their rental income annually to the French tax authorities, including income from furnished rentals classified under the Industrial and Commercial Profit (BIC) category.

5. Exemptions from Tourist Tax: Guests booking accommodations under the "bail mobilité" scheme are exempt from the tourist tax, which is generally applicable to short-term rentals.

Overall, Montpellier's short-term rental market is robust, supporting nearly 3,500 listings, primarily managed independently. The regulations aim to balance the needs of the local community and the hospitality industry, ensuring responsible rental practices.