December 2020 – Short term/holiday let regulations
The Scottish Government has drafted legislation to bring in regulation to the short term and holiday let sector. Subject to approval by Parliament it will come to force on 1st April 2021. Essentially, there are two changes:
- Licensing – Local councils will establish a licencing scheme, presumably something in the same vein as the current HMO licence scheme, and owners will have to apply for a licence to operate a short term let.
- Planning Permission – Local authorities will have the power to insist on planning permission for the change of use of a property from long term residence to a holiday let.
Further guidance will be provided by the Scottish Government in 2021.