Government Unveils New Short-Term Let Planning Permission Rules

The government has just announced new short-term let planning permission rules, which will have significant impacts on property owners and local communities. These rules aim to address the housing impacts of short-term lets and create a clear and regulated framework for the industry. These regulations, in response to the increasing popularity of short-term lets including holiday homes, rentals, and spare room accommodations, signify a significant milestone in planning permission protocols.

Following a comprehensive consultation on short-term let planning rules, substantial changes have been implemented to reshape the industry landscape. Under the new regulations, property owners must secure full planning permission for short-term lets, showcasing the government’s commitment to striking a balance between the visitor economy, housing market dynamics, and the needs of local communities.

Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing, and Communities, Michael Gove, emphasised the government’s dedication to protecting community interests while bolstering the visitor economy. The rules aim to prevent short-term lets from exacerbating the scarcity of affordable housing for local residents. The new legislation, described by the housing secretary as addressing a “hollowing out” of communities, mandates property owners renting out their properties as short-term holiday homes to seek permission from the local authority under a new “use” category.

The focus of these planning rules is to empower communities with greater control over future growth without compromising tourism. This move aims to assist local residents in areas where high numbers of short-term lets hinder their ability to secure affordable housing for purchase or rental.

The announcement is particularly welcomed by residents in areas like Cornwall, where concerns about being “sold out” to holidaymakers have been voiced. As evidenced by Airbnb’s over 329 listings in Falmouth, Cornwall, at the time of writing—properties urgently needed by locals—compared to just 40 rental properties on Rightmove, the struggle for housing accessibility underscores the necessity of these new short-term let planning permission rules.

These groundbreaking regulations represent a significant step forward in tackling the issues associated with short-term let accommodations, while also promoting fairness and sustainability in the housing sector.

For further insights into the new Short-Term Let Planning Permission Rules, explore the detailed information provided in our latest blog post here