The Italian Ministry of Tourism has announced that travelers who plan to visit Rome or Milan for just one night must stay in hotels or with friends. Short stays in Airbnb rentals in Italy and other vacation homes will be discontinued.
Fines of up to 5000 Euros
A new law will affect 14 major cities and around 950 municipalities that are popular tourist destinations. The new law requires that vacation apartments be booked for at least two nights. However, there are exceptions for families with three or more children who may struggle to find affordable hotel rooms.
In addition, the bill mandates landlords register each vacation apartment in a national database. It also requires landlords to include their identification number in all advertisements and on the apartment itself. According to the law, anyone renting more than four apartments must register as an entrepreneur.
Failure to comply could result in fines of up to 5,000 euros. However, the new law on rentals in Italy must still be passed by parliament before it becomes law.
Housing Shortages in Many Italian Cities
The Ministry of Tourism's proposed law must meet the demands of Florence's mayor, Dario Nardella. He had requested a limit of 120 days per year for renting apartments on Airbnb.
Italian politicians have called for measures against vacation rental platforms such as Airbnb. They argue that residents are forced to move to the outskirts by offering apartments to tourists, particularly in historic districts. In addition, the lack of housing is a significant issue in several Italian cities.
Italy is one of many countries struggling with Airbnb and trying to limit the number of apartments rented through the platform. Apartments in London, for example, can only be rented out for a maximum of 90 days per year. Amsterdam only allows 60 days, according to Tages-Anzeiger.
