Scotland's New Short-Term Let Legislation

Understanding the intricacies of Scotland's new short-term let legislation can be a daunting task for operators and stakeholders alike. To shed light on this evolving regulatory landscape, Amen Chaudry, a commercial property solicitor at Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie LLP, offers insights into the implications and requirements of the legislation.

As a solicitor at WJM, I've been closely following the developments around short-term lets in Scotland, particularly the recent legislation that has stirred quite a buzz. With deadlines passing and more looming on the horizon, it's never been more important for all involved to understand the implications and ensure compliance with the new regulatory framework.

The new legislation, applicable to all local authorities in Scotland, mandates that anyone engaging in short-term lets, be it through platforms like Airbnb or traditional holiday rentals, must obtain a license. The aims of the new legislation are to ensure all short-term lets are safe, to help licensing authorities know what is happening in their area and to help with the handling of complaints and issues faced by neighbours.

There has been a number of talks regarding concerns raised by industry representatives regarding the complexity of the licensing process and the potential impact on small businesses and tourism in rural areas.

One key issue which has been highlighted is the variation in licensing fees and requirements across different local authorities, creating a patchwork of regulations that operators must navigate. This variability adds an additional layer of complexity for those seeking to comply with the law, particularly for operators with properties spanning multiple jurisdictions.

With the clock ticking as the deadline for compliance looms, it's essential for all stakeholders to stay informed, seek timely advice, and take proactive steps to meet the requirements of the new short-term let legislation.