If you’re planning a trip to Paris and considering booking accommodation through Airbnb, you may be wondering – is Airbnb banned in Paris? The short answer is no, but there are some regulations and restrictions that you should be aware of.
Background
In 2014, the French government passed a law known as the “ALUR law” (Accès au Logement et un Urbanisme Rénové) that aimed to regulate the rental of private properties for short-term stays. The law was intended to address concerns about rising rental prices and housing shortages in major cities like Paris. It required property owners to register their properties with the local authorities and limited the number of nights a property could be rented out each year.
Airbnb in Paris Today
Since then, Airbnb has had to adapt to these regulations in order to continue operating in Paris. Property owners must now obtain a registration number from the local authorities before listing their property on Airbnb or any other short-term rental platform. This number must be included in the listing description for potential guests to see.
Additionally, there are restrictions on how many nights per year a property can be rented out on platforms like Airbnb. In Paris, this limit is set at 120 nights per year. This means that hosts cannot rent out their property for more than 120 nights per year or risk facing fines.
Penalties for Violations
The penalties for violating these regulations can be quite severe. Property owners who fail to register their properties with the local authorities can face fines of up to €50,000 ($58,000). Hosts who exceed the 120-night limit can also face fines of up to €50,000 ($58,000).
The Future of Airbnb in Paris
Despite these regulations and restrictions, Airbnb remains a popular option for travelers visiting Paris. As long as property owners follow the rules and regulations set forth by the French government, they can continue to rent out their properties on Airbnb.
However, it’s worth noting that there is still some controversy surrounding Airbnb in Paris and other major cities. Some argue that the platform contributes to rising rental prices and housing shortages, while others see it as a way for property owners to earn extra income.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Airbnb is not banned in Paris, but there are regulations and restrictions that hosts must follow in order to operate legally. As a traveler, it’s important to be aware of these regulations and ensure that you’re booking a property that is registered with the local authorities. By doing so, you can enjoy all that Paris has to offer while also supporting responsible tourism practices.