The new deadline applies to anyone operating as a host before 1 October 2022. Anyone who started operating after that must have applied for and obtained a licence before accepting guests and bookings.

New hosts must now apply for, and obtain, a licence before accepting bookings or receiving guests. Anyone who operating as a host before 1 October 2022 can operate as normal while their application is being determined.

Orkney Islands Council has a dedicated web page – www.orkney.gov.uk/slt-licence 

You can also contact the Short-term Lets Licensing Team at the Council via email at shortletslicensing@orkney.gov.uk or by telephone to 01856873535 extensions 2232 or 2229 and leave a voicemail if officers are not available.

The Scottish Government will undertake a review of levels of short-term let activity in early 2024.