Italian Government Proposes Law to Restrict Short-Term Accommodations

Italy is pondering a move to curb short-term rentals in its historic centers, giving locals a chance to score dreamy homes instead of tourists, and the proposal has sparked a fiery debate between locals, businesses, hotels, cities, and even the national government. It’s like an Italian soap opera right before our eyes!

Italy’s Tourism Ministry recently unveiled a draft law to limit short-term tourist rentals, including Airbnb listings, across the country. The aim is to tackle the scarcity of affordable housing in major cities and alleviate overcrowding in tourist hotspots. 

While Florence has already banned Airbnb in its city center, the proposed bill in Rome has sparked mixed reactions. While hotel businesses advocate for stricter rules, property managers are standing firm in defense of their businesses.

What could this mean for tourists? 

The new decree includes measures like a two-night minimum stay and a new type of identification for property listings. With over 25,000 accommodation facilities in Rome, equivalent to 10,000 hotels, there’s a need for more control and regulation. 

For tourists, this could mean far fewer accommodation options, especially for those who enjoy the comfort and convenience that short-term rentals offer in comparison to hotels.

Italy closely follows in the footsteps of popular Malaysian tourist destination, Penang, which recently banned Airbnb due to tourist-related disturbances in residential areas, following numerous complaints from locals. It appears that both countries are taking steps to address the impact of short-term rentals on their communities.