Is Airbnb legal in Naples?

In Naples, Airbnb hosts and short-term rental operators face a structured but stringent regulatory environment. Here's a concise overview based on the data collected:

1. Registration and Licensing:

   • Hosts must register their property with the Campania Region’s online “Regional Tourist Detector” platform to obtain a CIR (Codice Identificativo Regionale) code, which must be displayed on all listings.
   • A certified start of activity report (SCIA) must be submitted to the Naples municipality.

2. Tax Obligations:

   • A tourist tax of €3 per person per night, capped at 14 nights, must be collected and remitted quarterly to the Naples municipality.
   • Rental income is subject to Italian income tax, with non-resident owners paying a flat 21% rate, while residents pay progressive rates of 23-43%. Additional taxes may apply if providing hotel-like services.

3. Operational Requirements:

   • Rentals are limited to entire properties for up to a maximum of 30 days, unless the owner resides on-site.
   • Properties must meet habitability and safety standards.
   • Hosts must provide a written rental contract for stays under 30 days and register guest information with the state police's Alloggiati Web portal within 24 hours of check-in.

4. Fines and Compliance:

   • Non-compliance can result in fines reaching up to €600,000.
   • Naples has increasingly strict enforcement measures to combat illegal rentals and protect housing availability for residents.

5. Market Dynamics:

   • The city is friendly towards short-term rentals but has stopped issuing new licenses in central areas to address over-tourism and housing pressures.
   • There is a substantial income potential but accompanied by significant regulatory and compliance responsibilities.

6. Advice and Support:

   • Engaging a local lawyer or tax advisor is recommended to ensure compliance.
   • Hosts are advised to maintain good neighborhood relations, possibly using security cameras to manage guest behavior and issues like squatting.

7. Host Sentiments:

   • Some hosts perceive the regulations as burdensome and argue they favor hotels. There is an ongoing appeal for clearer, more streamlined processes.

Overall, while Naples offers a lucrative market for short-term rentals due to strong tourist demand, it necessitates careful adherence to a complex set of regulations to operate legally and avoid substantial penalties.