Exemptions from licensing
Some types of accommodation do not require a short-term let licence.
Alcohol-licensed premises
If you have a premises licence under the Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005 and your operating plan includes providing accommodation, you do not need a short-term let licence.
This exemption does not apply to
- Provisional premises licences
- Occasional licences
Properties on a croft
If you are a crofter, your arrangement with your landlord may be exempt. However, if you offer accommodation on a croft that meets the definition of a short-term let, you may still need a licence.
Hotels with self-catering units
If a hotel has planning permission for use as a hotel (Use Class 7) and covers self-catering units within the grounds, these units may also be exempt from licensing.
Check with our Planning team if you are unsure about your planning consent
Guest houses and hotels
Guest houses are not exempt and must apply for a short-term let licence if they meet the definition and no other exemption applies.
Hotels are exempt only if they:
- operate as a hotel (based on facts such as their classification by the Scottish Assessors Association)
- have planning permission for use as a hotel (Use Class 7)