Short Term Lets To Require Licences - Fee Charges For Landlords To Be Decided Later

30th October 2020

Members at yesterday's meeting of Highland Council homologated its response to the Scottish Government's consultation on the proposals for the regulation of short-term lets in Scotland.

The response was submitted by the 16 October deadline following consultation with the chairs of the Tourism and Licensing committees.

Councillors noted that short-term lets have significant economic benefits to Highland communities, but acknowledged that in some circumstances there can be negative impacts.

Members also noted the significant resource implications for the Council and agreed that the costs of administering the scheme would be recovered in full by way of fees, as permitted by the licensing scheme.

The report which went before full council today also highlighted that any costs incurred through the establishment of Control Areas under planning legislation cannot be recovered and would be additional costs. Members also agreed that the implementation of Planning Control areas will be the subject of a report to the Economy and Infrastructure Committee following consultation with the Housing and Property Committee and relevant Area Committees].

It was further agreed that the setting of fees for the proposed licensing scheme will be the subject of a report to the licensing committee after the regulations are finalised.

Members agreed to an amendment to recommendation (d) from Cllr Emma Roddick: Agree the implementation of Planning Control Areas will be the subject of a report to the Economy and Infrastructure Committee after the regulations are finalised [and following consultation with the Housing and Property Committee and relevant Area Committees].

Chair of the Tourism Committee, Cllr Maxine Smith, said: "The Council recognise the benefits of short-term lets in the Highlands to both hosts and visitors. The proposed changes will ensure the Council have appropriate powers to balance the needs and concerns of their communities with wider economic and tourism interests."

The Council will publicise the new requirements to businesses in the area when the regulations are finalised by the Scottish Government.”