About short-term let licences

A short-term let licence gives you legal permission to let out accommodation to guests who stay on a temporary basis.

You must get a licence before you take bookings or receive guests.

A licence usually lasts for 3 years.

If you do not get a licence

It’s a criminal offence to operate a short-term let without a licence:

• you can be fined up to £2,500
• you can be banned from applying for a licence for one year
• you cannot offer lets while you are banned

Non-domestic rates (business rates)

You may need to pay non-domestic rates on your property. These are often referred to as 'business rates'.  

Get information on how non-domestic rates apply to short-term lets.