Understanding Tasmania’s Short Stay Accommodation Act: Key Points for Property Owners

Understanding Tasmania’s Short Stay Accommodation Act: Key Points for Property Owners

Tasmania’s Short Stay Accommodation Act 2019 provides a regulatory framework for short-term rentals, ensuring compliance with local planning and safety standards. Here are the essential details of the Act that property owners need to know.

Key Components of the Short Stay Accommodation Act

Overview of the Act

1. Purpose:

   • The Short Stay Accommodation Act 2019 was enacted to assist in enforcing permits under the Land Use Planning and Approvals Act 1993 and to facilitate the collection and use of information regarding short stay premises.

2. Definitions:

   • Applicable Premises: Premises intended for overnight accommodation in specified residential zones.

   • Booking Platform Provider: A person or entity that operates a system enabling the booking of short stay premises.

Registration and Permits

1. Relevant Permits:

   • Short stay premises must have a relevant permit under the Land Use Planning and Approvals Act 1993. This permit authorizes the use of the premises for short stay purposes.

   • Information regarding the permit, including the address and number of bedrooms, must be provided to booking platforms.

2. Booking Platform Responsibilities:

   • Booking platforms must ensure that they display relevant permit information for each listed property. Failure to comply can result in fines of up to 100 penalty units.

Information and Compliance

1. Provision of Information:

   • Short stay premises providers must supply accurate information to booking platforms, including permit details and whether the premises are the provider’s primary residence.

   • Misrepresentation or failure to provide necessary information can result in penalties of up to 50 penalty units.

2. Director of Building Control:

   • Booking platforms are required to provide the Director of Building Control with quarterly information on listed properties. This data helps ensure compliance with planning and building regulations.

Penalties and Enforcement

1. Penalties for Non-Compliance:

   • Property owners and booking platforms that fail to comply with the Act’s requirements can face significant fines. For booking platforms, fines can reach up to 100 penalty units for non-compliance with display requirements.

   • Short stay premises providers can be fined up to 50 penalty units for failing to provide accurate information or operating without the necessary permits.

2. Use of Information:

   • Information collected under the Act is used to ensure compliance with planning and building regulations and to develop housing policies. Unauthorized sharing or publication of this information can result in fines.

Practical Steps for Compliance

1. Check Permit Requirements:

   • Verify if your property falls under the categories requiring a permit and ensure you have the necessary approvals from your local planning authority.

2. Accurate Information Submission:

   • When listing your property on booking platforms, ensure that all provided information is accurate and up-to-date. This includes permit numbers, the number of bedrooms, and whether the property is your primary residence.

3. Regular Updates:

   • Stay informed about any changes in regulations or additional requirements. Regularly update your listing and documentation to remain compliant.