What is the Ireland Short-Term Letting Register?
The Ireland Short-Term Letting Register is a mandatory national database for all properties offered as short-term tourist lets. Established under the Short-Term Tourist Letting Act, its primary purpose is to provide Fáilte Ireland with accurate data on the sector and to verify that properties comply with relevant legal requirements, including planning permission where applicable.
All hosts and property managers must register their properties to legally operate and advertise them in Ireland.
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How it works
Property owners must apply online via Fáilte Ireland's dedicated portal. The application requires submitting property details, ownership information, and a declaration of compliance with statutory obligations for planning permission and safety.
Upon successful validation, the property is issued a unique registration number. This number must then be prominently displayed on all advertisements and online listings, including on OTAs like Airbnb and Vrbo as well as direct booking websites.
Online platforms are legally required to verify that a valid registration number is displayed before allowing a property to be listed.
Why it matters
For hosts, registering is a legal prerequisite for operating a short-term let; non-compliance can lead to significant fines and the de-listing of their property. The register creates a more transparent marketplace by providing official data on the size and location of rental accommodations.
This data helps inform national and local government policies on housing and tourism. It also aims to standardize the market by ensuring all operators adhere to the same foundational safety and regulatory standards.
Examples
- A property manager overseeing several apartments in Dublin for short stays is required to register each unit individually and ensure each unique registration number is displayed on all marketing channels.
- An online travel agency removes a listing for a property in Galway because the host failed to provide a valid registration number from the Ireland Short-Term Letting Register as required by law.
- A host who rents out a spare room in their home in Cork on a short-term basis must also register the room with Fáilte Ireland and display the issued number on their listing.
- An owner of a cottage in County Kerry must first apply to the Short-Term Letting Register and obtain a registration number before their listing on Airbnb can legally go live.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Ireland Short-Term Letting Register mandatory for all short-term lets?+
What happens if I don't register my property?+
What information is needed for registration?+
Where must the registration number be displayed?+
Related terms
Ireland Planning Permission for Short-Term Lets
Ireland Planning Permission for Short-Term Lets refers to the legal requirement for property owners in certain areas to obtain formal approval from their local…
Registration Number
A unique identifier issued by a government or municipal authority that legally authorizes a property to operate as a short-term rental. This number is often…
Planning Permission (UK and Ireland)
Planning permission is the formal approval from a local authority (council) required to undertake certain types of development, which can include the material…
Ireland Income Tax for Short-Term Lets
Ireland Income Tax for Short-Term Lets refers to the tax obligations on income generated from renting out a property, or part of a property, for short periods…
