All local governments had to implement a licensing program for premises used as short-term rentals by October 1, 2022. Following the sharp growth in Airbnb-style rentals, which had a detrimental impact on local communities due to a reported surge in noise, antisocial behavior, and housing supply, the program was put into place. The program is applicable throughout Scotland, even though its original goal was to focus on prominent locations for short-term rentals, such Edinburgh and St. Andrews.
To address specific stress points, local authorities will be able to use additional powers that work in combination with the licensing scheme in areas with higher rates of short-term rentals. For instance, Edinburgh City Council has implemented Scotland’s first “control
