Is Airbnb legal in Sicily?

Overview of Airbnb Regulations in Sicily

Sicily has established a regulatory framework for short-term rentals, particularly through platforms like Airbnb, in response to the growing popularity of vacation rentals in its cities. In particular, the regions of Catania and Taormina have specific regulations aimed at balancing tourism and housing availability.

General National Regulations

Across Italy, there are common obligations for Airbnb hosts: 1. Guest Registration: Hosts must register guest information with local police through the Alloggiati Web portal within 24 hours of arrival. 2. Rental Contracts: A rental agreement must be signed for stays lasting longer than 30 days. For stays of less than 30 days, while a contract is not mandatory, it is advisable to detail terms to avoid disputes. 3. Tourist Tax: Hosts must collect and remit a local tourist tax, which varies by municipality. 4. Tax Compliance: Income from short-term rentals is subject to taxation, with many non-professional hosts eligible for a 21% flat rate tax known as "cedolare secca."

Catania’s Regulations

Catania has implemented a rigorous process for operating short-term rentals: - License Requirements: Hosts must submit a SCIA (Certified Notification of Start of Activity) through the SUAP online portal, obtain permission from the neighborhood council, and receive a CIR (Codice Identificativo Regionale) from the regional tourism authority. This CIR must be included in all rental listings. - Taxes: A local tourist tax of €2 per person per night is applicable, with a maximum stay limit. - Compliance and Enforcement: While enforcement is currently perceived to be lax compared to larger cities, hosts are warned of potential fines of up to €30,000 for repeat violations.

Taormina’s Regulations

In Taormina, the short-term rental process is even stricter: - CIR Requirement: Similar to Catania, hosts must acquire a CIR and display it on all advertisements. This requires a detailed application process that includes numerous documents like proof of property ownership, energy efficiency certificates, and safety certifications. - Hosted vs. Unhosted Rentals: Taormina differentiates between "hosted" rentals, which are easier to permit, and "unhosted" rentals, which face more stringent regulations and potential additional fees. - Fines and Compliance: The municipality actively enforces regulations; fines can start at €1,000 for non-compliance.

Conclusion

For Airbnb hosts in Sicily, compliance with local and regional regulations is essential to operate legally. Catania and Taormina demonstrate a commitment to regulating this sector through paperwork, licensing, and local taxes to support tourism while safeguarding housing for residents. Hosts are encouraged to stay informed and compliant with the latest legal requirements to avoid penalties and contribute positively to their communities.