The continued popularity of Airbnb and other short-term rental platforms presents an excellent opportunity for homeowners to generate additional income. However, due to the lack of specific legislation, this often creates a ‘grey area’ in planning, leaving many property owners uncertain about whether planning permission is required for such rentals.
At Ethical Planning, we specialise in navigating planning regulations and can help guide you through the process to ensure compliance.
Understanding Planning Permission for Short Term Rentals
To determine if your property needs planning permission, it is useful to determine the ‘Use Class’, which is the legal term used by planning authorities to regulate a building’s purpose. A material change of use occurs when the way a building is used changes significantly enough to require planning permission. Using a property as a short-term let year-round, or even for some of the year, may constitute a material change of use, which could require approval from the local authority. Regulations around this can vary, particularly in major cities where governments aim to balance tourism with housing availability and community concerns.
Key Factors Influencing Planning Requirements
- Length and Frequency of Stays – Some local authorities permit short-term rentals for a limited number of days per year without planning permission. Exceeding this limit may require approval.
- Location-Specific Regulations – Different local authorities have their own rules. For example, in London, properties can be rented out for up to 90 nights per year without planning permission.
- Impact on the Neighbourhood – If an Airbnb property leads to complaints about noise, increased foot traffic, or waste management issues, the local authority may step in.
How Can We Help?
At Ethical Planning, we take the complexity out of planning regulations. Our team can:
- Assess whether your property requires planning permission
- Provide strategic advice to ensure compliance with planning legislation
- Liaise with local authorities
- Assist with preparing, submitting and managing a planning application on your behalf.
Get in Touch
Before listing your property on Airbnb, or if you’re operating as one and need some planning support, let us help you navigate the regulations with confidence. Contact Ethical Planning today for expert guidance and tailored solutions to ensure your short-term rental operates legally and successfully.