Short term lets - licensing scheme guidance for hosts and operators

The Scottish Government has published guidance for hosts and operators of short-term lets in Scotland to help you work out whether you need to apply for a licence and, if so, how to make an application and comply with the requirements of the licensing scheme.

This guidance will take you through all the considerations in making a licensing application, including making sure that your property is ready. It also includes information on how to make sure you comply with your licence conditions and how to renew your licence when it expires.

Topics covered include:

• what is meant by a short-term let
• types of short-term let and exclusions
• how licensing works
• engaging with your neighbours
• providing a quality experience for your guests
• industry codes of practice
• things to consider before you apply for a license
• who can apply and information required
• mandatory conditions
• additional conditions and obligations
• making your application
• how your application will be determined
• how to stay compliant
• glossary of terms

This is a free service.

Hosts and operators of short-term lets in Scotland.

Separate guidance is available for the short-term lets planning regulations. Hosts and operators must comply with both planning and licensing law.

This guidance is non-statutory and should not be interpreted as offering definitive legal advice. If in doubt, you should seek your own legal advice.

Visit the Scottish Government website for more information and to read the guidance.