Short-Term Let
Licensing
In Scotland.
Legal requirement for short-term letting.
All short-term let properties in Scotland must hold a valid short-term let licence issued by the relevant local council. Local authorities have active enforcement powers and enforcement action is already underway in several council areas.
Legal Requirement In Scotland.
Short-term let licensing was introduced across Scotland under the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982 (Licensing of Short-term Lets) Order 2022. The legislation requires all short-term let properties to hold a licence issued by the relevant local authority before operating.
Licensing ensures that properties meet the required safety standards, that guest behaviour is managed responsibly and that short-term letting takes place appropriately within residential communities.
Administrative Support Only.
STL licence handling is not included within AirUs management fees. Licence application support is provided as a separate administrative handling service and is quoted on a case-by-case basis.
Scope and cost depend on the property, council requirements and complexity of the application.
Applications Prepared And Submitted.
To date, all short-term let licence applications prepared and submitted by AirUs for managed properties have been approved by the relevant local councils.
This reflects thorough preparation, clear documentation and alignment with council requirements.
Additional Certificates May Be Required.
Some councils require additional safety certificates as part of the licence application. Requirements vary by council and property type.
Where required, certificates are arranged separately and charged independently. AirUs can coordinate these services where instructed.
Documentation And Property Suitability.
Licence applications are assessed on both documentation and property suitability. Applications are reviewed individually based on the property and how it will be managed.
Holding A Licence Carries Obligations.
Properties must continue to meet licence conditions — including maintaining safety standards, managing guest behaviour and responding to issues during stays.
Councils may review compliance during the licence period.
Apply For Management Or Licence Support.
If you require professional short-term let management or support with an STL licence application in Scotland, you can apply below or book a call to discuss suitability and scope.