Definition of a short term let

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 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:

1. operate as a hotel (based on facts such as their classification by the Scottish Assessors Association)
2. have planning permission for use as a hotel (Use Class 7)

Check your planning status