Short-term let hosts and landlords, including people providing accommodation through online booking platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com and HomeAway, must sign up to the scheme before 1 October 2023 if they let out property on a short-term basis anywhere across Scotland.

The rules come into effect from 1 October 2024, but hosts must apply a year in advance if they want to rent out property from October 2025. The licences have to be renewed annually.

Short-term let hosts must apply for a licence with their relevant local authority in Scotland before the deadline. They will also need to provide the necessary fire safety checklist, proof of insurance and energy performance certificates.