Is Airbnb legal in Saint Malo?

Airbnb Regulations in Saint Malo

Saint Malo has recently implemented some of the strictest regulations in France regarding short-term rentals, particularly through platforms like Airbnb. This initiative, which began in June 2021, aims to address significant challenges such as the shortage of housing, rising property prices, and the impact on local communities caused by the proliferation of short-term rentals.

Key Features of Saint Malo's Short-Term Rental Regulations:

1. Quotas by Neighborhood: The city has established strict quotas on short-term rentals to maintain a balance between tourism and residential living. In the historic center (Intra-Muros), only 12.5% of accommodations can be short-term rentals, while coastal areas are limited to 7.5%. Other city sectors have even tighter restrictions at 1% and 3%.

2. Eligibility Criteria for Hosts:

   • Hosts must be individuals (natural persons) rather than legal entities.
   • Each host is allowed to rent only one accommodation.
   • Hosts need to have been residing in Saint Malo prior to the implementation of these quotas.

3. Housing Market Impact: The regulations are primarily aimed at restoring available rental units back to the local housing market. The mayor of Saint Malo, Gilles Lurton, indicated that the local population had expressed concerns over housing scarcity and a decline in neighborhood quality due to the high number of short-term rentals.

4. Community Feedback: While the regulations have won approval from some residents who appreciate the efforts to curb the housing crisis, they have faced backlash from property owners and potential hosts who feel stifled by the restrictions.

5. Local Government Supervision: As part of these regulations, the local government has taken a proactive approach to monitor compliance, analyzing existing short-term rentals, and ensuring that market dynamics remain balanced in favor of local residents.

6. Registration and Reporting: Hosts are generally required to register their properties with the local authorities, emphasizing transparency and accountability in the short-term rental market.

Current Market Context:

Despite these stringent regulations, Saint Malo remains a popular destination for short-term rentals, with statistics showing a median occupancy rate of 66% and annual host revenue around €22K. However, the enforcement of strict regulations may lead to a shift in the market, potentially benefiting long-term rentals and local residents more than transient visitors.

This evolving landscape reflects a broader trend across France and other major tourist cities facing similar challenges with short-term rentals, where the balance between tourism and local housing needs is becoming increasingly critical.