Before you apply
Since 1 October 2022, all new hosts must have a licence before taking bookings or receiving guests.
You must have a short-term let licence if you let out accommodation such as:
- a room in your home
- a holiday cottage
- a guest house or B&B
- unconventional accommodation (for example, pods or yurts)
This applies to all hosts and operators unless your property is specifically exempt under the legislation.
Read the Scottish Government’s guidance on exemptions
Before you apply, make sure you have read the following guidance
Supporting documents and guidance
- Highland Council's short term lets policy statement
- Submit a development enquiry with the planning department
- Building regulations
- Repairing standard
- Fire safety
- Fire safety risk assessment forms and guidance
- Fire and smoke alarms in Scottish homes
- Furniture and Furnishings Regulations 1988
- Landlord gas responsibilities
- Legionella responsibilities
- Legionella risk assessment template
- Guidance on EPC requirements and EPC introduction
- Food premises registration
- Private Water Supply briefing note
- Private Water Supply questionnaire
Landlord registration and HMO
You may also need to register as a landlord or apply for an HMO licence if:
- The property is let as someone’s main home
- It is occupied by 3 or more unrelated people sharing facilities