ComAirbnb has welcomed new rules for short-term rentals in Portugal known as Alojamento Local (AL). The new laws give more control to local governments. Cities and towns can now decide on the number and location of AL rentals. Airbnb has offered to work with these local authorities. The company wants fair and balanced regulations that benefit both tourists and locals.
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New Rules For Short-Term Rentals In Portugal
The new rules aim to balance tourism with residents needs. Cities now have the power to limit short-term rentals in specific areas if needed. This means they can decide whether certain neighborhoods should have more or fewer AL rentals.
Airbnb has stated it is ready to cooperate. The company wants rules that reflect each area’s needs. Airbnb says strict rules are not always helpful and prefers solutions for each neighborhood.
Economic Benefits In Lisbon And Porto
Airbnb is focusing on Lisbon and Porto which is two major tourist destinations. These cities have a high number of AL rentals. Airbnb data shows that rentals are mostly in certain areas.
For example, in Lisbon only six out of 24 parishes have AL densities above 3%. In Porto, just two out of nine parishes have similar levels. Airbnb believes the new rules should consider these local differences.
The company hopes that rules will allow for a flexible approach. This means letting popular tourist areas welcome guests while protecting quieter parts of the city. They believes this will benefit both tourists and residents.
Airbnb highlights the economic value of short term rentals in Portugal. Airbnb guests spent an average of 116 euro per day in Portugal in 2023. This spending added up to €2.4 billion with €1.1 billion going to taxes. Airbnb claims that this spending supports local businesses such as cafes, shops, and events.
The company also states that short-term rentals help create about 55,000 jobs in Portugal. These jobs are in hospitality, catering, and local services. Airbnb also collected €63.3 million in tourist taxes from Lisbon and Porto. Airbnb believes this data shows the value of short-term rentals for Portugal’s economy.
Local Power And Community Involvement
Portugal’s new rules also give residents more say in AL activities. In areas with over 1,000 AL units local governments will decide whether to use new regulatory powers. This approach allows communities with many AL rentals to shape policies that meet their needs.
Local governments can limit AL rentals in residential areas if they wish. This decentralized approach lets towns and cities make their own decisions. It allows them to balance tourism benefits with the needs of their residents.
National Registration System Proposal
Airbnb has suggested a national registration system for AL rentals. This system will allow Airbnb to share data with local authorities. Airbnb says this will help local governments track AL activity and better understand its impact.
By supporting data sharing, Airbnb hopes to help local authorities make informed decisions. This data will guide them on where to limit AL units or where to support more tourism. Company believes a registration system could help protect residents while also promoting tourism.
Airbnb Part-Time Hosts And Collaboration With Local Governments
Airbnb also wants to protect part time hosts. These are people who rent their homes occasionally rather than as full time businesses. Many of these hosts are families who use AL income to cover expenses. Airbnb’s goal is to make sure that part time hosts are not overly restricted by new rules.
The company plans to work with Lisbon and Porto to create fair rules. For instance Airbnb supports limits on the number of days a property can be rented rather than complete restrictions. This will allow part time hosts to earn income while keeping neighborhoods calm.
Airbnb’s response to the new AL rules shows it wants to work with local authorities in Portugal. The company supports rules that are community focused. Airbnb believes that cooperation can create a balance that meets everyone’s needs.
The new rules give Portugal’s cities and towns the chance to control AL rentals. Airbnb’s offer to collaborate will help create solutions that benefit both tourism and local life.
