Argyll and Bute Council is urging short-term let owners to submit applications for the new Scottish Government Short-term Licensing Scheme before the 1 October deadline.
The Scottish Government has introduced licensing to ensure a safe experience for visitors to encourage them to return to the area, and to support the interests of local communities.
From the 1 October 2023, under the new scheme, unlicensed premises will not be able to take bookings and could receive a fine up to £2,500 and existing hosts (business operating before the 1 October 2022) can only continue to operate if they have made an application for licence by the 1 October 2023 deadline.
How to apply
You can apply on the council website https://www.argyll-bute.gov.uk/licences/short-term-lets-licence
Here, you can find lots of information to help support your application including:
- A pre-application checklist to make sure you have all your supporting documents
- A list of who should apply and who is exempt
- Frequently asked questions
- Licence fees
Councillor Kieron Green, Policy Lead for Legal and Regulatory Services:
“Short-term let accommodation plays a significant role in Argyll and Bute’s economy. As a council, we want to ensure that our many visitors from across the globe have a positive and safe experience here. The new national scheme will assist in regulating safety standards, and help address any concerns from local communities.
If you are an existing short-term lets operator, please make sure you have submitted your application prior to 1 October deadline to make sure you can still take bookings and operate."
Licensing fees
Licences are valid for three years.
The fees equate to £80 annually for a small bed and breakfast with less than four guests; and £160 annually for a self-catering property for six guests.
Further information
More information on the short-term licensing scheme is available on The Scottish Government website
https://www.gov.scot/publications/short-term-lets-scotland-licensing-scheme-part-1-guidance-hosts-operators-3/