A short term let is a property which is let out to visitors on a commercial basis for short periods of time. Often the whole property is let as holiday accommodation. In other cases, the host will continue to live in the property and let out a room or rooms to visitors.
We have a best practice checklist which provides hosts with information about what consents are required and how visitors should be managed to protect the amenity of neighbours. It is available to download from the Council’s website.
Where a whole property is let on a commercial basis to visitors, it is likely that planning permission is required.
Our Planning Enforcement team is currently targeting properties believed to be operating on a commercial basis and where harm to residential amenity is being reported by neighbouring residents.
If you believe that a property is being used in this way but doesn’t have planning permission then you can report it using our online form. This page also contains a link to the Council’s Planning Enforcement Charter.
The Council is working with the Scottish Government to introduce new ways of regulating short term lets in Edinburgh. More proposals will be announced over coming months.
Planning Edinburgh 