Short-term lets: regulation information

Enforcement

Short-term lets licensing is law. Enforcement is a last resort. It is in the interests of short-term let operators to ensure they comply with their legal obligations.

The maximum fine for operating without a licence is £2,500.

There are fines for other offences such as providing false information and failing to comply with a licence condition.

If you think you might need a licence, you should apply as soon as possible – and must not take bookings or receive guests until you have obtained a licence.

Other risks of not having a licence

There are other risks to liability that you may incur by operating without a licence, or in breach of a licence.

Public liability, business insurance, and lending arrangements may all be affected.

If an offence is prosecuted or action is taken, such as revoking a licence, this may be disqualified as a host from holding or obtaining a short-term lets licence for one year.

Reporting breaches 

Your local council website may include information about reporting breaches of civic licensing offences and unlicensed operators.

Police Scotland will liaise with local authority partners in line with other licensing schemes and consider the circumstances of each case, before deciding what action is taken. Police Scotland will continue to prioritise areas that encounter the greatest demand and carry the greatest risk.