- North Cornwall MP Ben Maguire introduced the Short-term Lets (Planning Permission) Bill to parliament on Tuesday, aiming to regulate holiday lets and address council tax avoidance by second homeowners.
- The proposed “Airbnb Bill” requires homeowners to obtain planning permission before converting residential properties into short-term holiday lets, closing a loophole that allows them to claim small business status and avoid council tax obligations.
- To qualify for business rates, a short-term let must be available to rent for at least 140 days and rented for a minimum of 70 days in the prior year.
- As of October 2023, Cornwall Council reported 13,140 second homes in the county and is now charging an additional 100 per cent council tax premium on second homes.
- Mr Maguire said the Bill aimed to restore fairness and give locals a better chance at owning homes.
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Second homeowners in Cornwall could be hit with ‘Airbnb Bill’
