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Renting out your home on Airbnb or another short-term platform looks simple. It seems like an easy way to earn extra income. But the rules are not always clear. In London especially, planning permission is often part of the conversation. It’s important to know where you stand before hosting guests.

The London 90-Night Rule

In London, the key rule is the 90-night limit. You can rent out your property short-term for up to 90 nights each calendar year without planning permission.

This rule only applies if the property is your main residence. You, or the person paying Council Tax, must live there most of the time.

If you go beyond 90 nights, the property counts as a “change of use.” At that point, you must apply for planning permission from your local council.

Short-Term Let Rules Outside London

Outside London, the rules are more flexible. However, new regulations are on the horizon across England.

The government has proposed a new category of property use called Use Class C5. It applies specifically to short-term and holiday lets. This would separate normal residential use (Use Class C3) from homes run as short-term rentals.

The aim is to give councils more control in holiday rental hotspots while keeping some flexibility for owners.

National Register of Short-Term Lets

The government also plans a national register of short-term lets. This will help councils track properties used as Airbnb-style rentals. It will also make enforcement easier where rules are broken.

Local Authority Powers

Even with these changes, councils will still hold strong powers. They can introduce Article 4 Directions, removing the automatic right to switch between residential and short-term use.

In practice, this creates a patchwork of rules across the UK. The requirements for one area may differ from the next.

How Advance Architecture Can Help

At Advance Architecture, we know how complex the rules can feel. Maybe you want to rent your flat for part of the year. Or perhaps you want to turn an investment property into a full-time short-term let. Either way, our team can help.

We advise on planning rules in your area, prepare and submit applications, and design your property for the best chance of approval.

Get Expert Advice Today

If you plan to earn money from Airbnb or other platforms, get the planning side right. With new legislation on the way, now is the time to seek advice.

Thinking about renting your property short-term? Get in touch with Advance Architecture today. We’ll guide you through the rules, handle the paperwork, and help you use your property safely and legally.