Short-term lets

It is a legal requirement under Scottish law for all short-term let properties to have a short-term let licence. This is to ensure they are safe and the people providing them are suitable. 

All short-term let properties require a license by 1 January 2025. Operating without a short-term let licence is a criminal offence. You could get a fine of up to £2,500 and be banned from applying for a licence for a year.

Your accommodation is likely to need a short term let licence unless your guest:

• lives in the accommodation as their main home
• is a member of your immediate family, including a foster child
• uses the accommodation to carry out work or services for you
• shares the accommodation as part of an educational arrangement

For a full list of properties that are included, go to accommodation needing a short-term let licence – mygov.scot.

Planning permission and building regulations

You must make sure that your property also meets planning and building regulations before you submit your licence application.

To find out if you need planning permission for a short term let, read our short-term lets guidance – planning.

You can also read more about building regulations.