Short-term lets licensing online application form now live

The online application form within the Council’s dedicated web page on the Scottish Government’s new short-term lets licensing regime is now live.

It is hoped that the web page - www.orkney.gov.uk/slt-licence - will assist folk through the application process.

The page contains links to a wealth of information on the Scottish Government legislation, the application process and fees.

After reading the Council’s Guidance you can complete the online application form. If you require further information or assistance please contact the Short-term Lets Licensing Team at the Council via email at shortletslicensing@orkney.gov.uk or by telephone to 01856873535 extensions 2232 or 2229 and leave a voicemail if officers are not available.

The Scottish Government passed legislation in March this year requiring all local authorities to put in place arrangements for those renting out rooms or properties on a short let basis – for example through Air B&B – to obtain a licence to do so.

The Scottish Government says that the legislation is designed to ensure that rooms or properties meet specific safety standards.

From 1 October 2022 any new operators or hosts must have a licence in place before they can let out the room or property. Existing hosts (those that have operated prior to 1 October 2022) have until 31 March 2023 to apply for a licence and will be able to continue to operate in the meantime.

Read more here: https://www.orkney.gov.uk/News?postid=6569