Government Weighs Limits on Licenses, Operating Days, Income Criteria, and Local Restrictions
As the saying goes, "Where there's smoke, there's fire," and this seems to apply to Airbnb as well. Recent statements by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and top ministers to re-examine the legal framework for short-term property rentals are beginning to outline the new plan of interventions and restrictions being considered by the government.
Information suggests various scenarios, such as caps on licenses and operating days and income criteria, with a focus on "rental entrepreneurs" rather than individuals who rent one or at most two properties through short-term rental platforms. Despite strong reactions from municipal and business leaders, the scope of the interventions will be limited to urban centres and much less to the islands.
Airbnb-style rentals are a source of intense debate, as they fuel the economy's tourism engine but also contribute to the debate about the root cause of the country's housing problem. The government is seeking a middle ground, taking into account both housing needs and the significant revenue from short-term property rentals that support state coffers and many households, some of which rely solely on this income.
Here's a more detailed breakdown of the potential changes:
- License Caps: The government is considering limiting the number of Airbnb licenses that can be issued in certain areas. This could be based on factors such as population density, housing availability, and tourism activity.
- Operating Day Limits: Another option being explored is restricting the number of days per year that an Airbnb property can be rented out. This could help ensure a balance between short-term rentals and long-term housing options.
- Income Criteria: The government may also consider imposing income criteria for Airbnb hosts. This would mean that only people who earn a certain amount of money from their rentals would be eligible for a license.
- Local Restrictions: The government is also considering giving local authorities more power to regulate Airbnb rentals in their areas. This could include setting additional restrictions on licenses, operating days, and noise levels.
The government is expected to make a decision on the new Airbnb regulations in the coming months.
