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Short-term lets

Anyone who operated a short-term let before 1 October 2022 AND has had an application accepted before 1 October 2023, can still accept bookings and guests until an application is determined.

Owners who started operations after 1 October 2022 cannot begin trading until they receive their licence.

If as an existing host, you have failed to apply for a licence before 1 October 2023, you will be unable to accept bookings and guests from 1 October 2023 onwards, until a licence has been granted

Overview

The Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982 (Licensing of Short-term Lets) Order 2022 was passed in January 2022 and came into force on 1 March 2022.

The effect of that Order was that from 1 October 2022, the use of accommodation for a short-term let was an activity for which a licence is required under the terms of the 1982 Act. 

In light of the decision of the Scottish Parliament on 1 March 2023, the deadline by which existing hosts and operators must apply for a licence has been extended from 1 April 2023 to 1 October 2023. 

The aims of the licensing scheme are to:

  • ensure all short-term lets are safe;
  • facilitate licensing authorities in knowing and understanding what is happening in their area; and
  • assist with handling complaints and address issues faced by neighbours effectively.

Contents

Complaints, objections and representations

Objections and representations to short-term let applications

An Objection or Representation can only be accepted if it is received by the licensing authority within 28 days of the date of public notice.

Anyone wishing to state an Objection or Representation about the proposed application must do so within 28 days of public notice of the application being given:-

  • in writing by letter or email
  • specifying the grounds of objection or as the case maybe, the nature of the representation
  • specifying the name and address of the person making it; and
  • is signed by the objector, or on their behalf

Complaints about hosts or operators

Complaints will be considered in terms of the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982, Schedule 1 Paragraphs 11 and 12.

Anyone can make a complaint to the licensing authority in relation to a short-term let.

Guest complaints must be directed to the host prior to making contact with the council. Complaints can be made either by email to LAWLicensing@angus.gov.uk, or by post to:

Angus Council
Licensing Department
Angus House
Orchardbank Business Park
Forfar
Angus
DD8 1AN

Further information related to complaints, representations and objections is available at Sections 14 and Appendix B, Section 1.5 of the Angus Council Licensing Policy Statement - Short-term Lets.

Next: Short-term let control areas