Law firm Gilson Gray is warning that an urgent deadline is approaching for short-term let licensing.
Compulsory licensing for short-term lets was introduced in Scotland last year – and this is said to have led to a lot of confusion.
This scheme requires all short-term let operators to obtain a licence to continue operating.
Findlay Anderson, a partner at Gilson Gray in Aberdeen, said: “Applications originally had to be lodged by April 1, 2023, but this deadline was extended by the Scottish Government to October 1, 2023.
“That means anyone in the short-term let sector - with very few exceptions - will need a short-term let licence in order to continue operating.
“Prospective licensees must adhere to a number of requirements in order to successfully obtain a licence.
Additional burden
“This regulation is creating significant additional burden on short-term let operators and the broader industry.”
Mr Anderson said this includes not only self-catering, but also B&B and guest house operators as well as those people renting out a room in their home.
He went on: “If licences are not granted, there will also be a wider impact on those who support the industry - from letting and managing agents to cleaners, electricians and trades people.
“There has been a lot of confusion about the above deadlines and the implications for industry in general.
“Guest house and B&B operators are often adamant they do not need a licence, which is incorrect, although there are possible exemptions through obtaining a liquor licence before the lodging deadline.
Further confusion
“Each local council area also has its own policy which is adding further confusion.
“ Operators often think they need planning or will not be granted a licence because they have heard about issues in other areas when, in fact, their area may not be applying the same requirements.”