The Scottish Government’s new short-term let licensing regulations will come into force from October 1, requiring all self-catering businesses and short-term let providers to obtain a short-term let license.
Existing providers must apply for a license by April 1 next year. Accommodation providers across Caithness and Sutherland are being offered guidance and support in preparation for a shift in regulations, according to a report.
The Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers (ASSC) has now teamed up with the region’s destination management organization, Venture North, to help providers across the north understand how the new legislation will affect them and their business.
The association will host an online show about the regulations next month, where experts will give advice on the spot.
Cathy Earnshaw, destination strategy manager for Venture North, leads the tourism recovery strategy for Caithness and Sutherland. She is urging businesses to plan in preparation for the new legislation.
“The virtual event has been designed to help short-term let operators understand how the new legislation will affect them and their business, as well as the next steps they need to take, so we’re urging businesses to register today,” Earnshaw said.
“The event is open to anyone with an interest in the implementation of the new legislation and is free for members of Venture North and ASSC.”
The event, which will take place from 6 pm next Tuesday, is open to operators of all short-term lets, including self-catering, B&Bs, guest houses, and glamping pods. It is one of many roadshow events being staged by ASSC.
“Short-term let operators don’t have long to prepare for these new regulations,” said Fiona Campbell, chief executive of ASSC.
“We would strongly encourage as many businesses as possible in Caithness and Sutherland to sign up for the event to understand what they need to do in order to comply.”
This article originally appeared on The Press And Journal.