Airbnb Rules in France | Laws, Regulations, and Taxes

France, known for its vibrant cities, stunning landscapes, and rich culture, is a sought-after destination for travelers seeking unique accommodation experiences. However, understanding and complying with the rules governing Airbnb operations in the country is paramount to ensuring a smooth and legal hosting experience.

This comprehensive guide delves into the intricacies of Airbnb rules in France, shedding light on regulations may differ in other parts of France, and each city might have its own municipal guidelines regarding short-term rentals.

Registration of Airbnb Properties

Registration Across France

Airbnb hosts in France must register with the local authorities and obtain a registration number. This registration number must be included in the Airbnb listing. Hosts who fail to register may face fines of up to €5,000.

Registering in Paris

Before listing their property on Airbnb or any other short-term rental platforms, hosts in Paris must register their properties with the local authorities. This regulation allows the city to keep track of the number of available short-term rentals and ensure hosts' adherence to the established laws. To complete the registration process, hosts must obtain a unique registration number, which should be prominently displayed on their listings. Failure to comply with this requirement may result in significant fines.

Length of stay - The 120-Day Rental Limit in Paris

Among the most crucial Airbnb regulations in Paris is the 120-day rental limit. Hosts are permitted to rent out their primary residences in their entirety for a maximum of 120 days per year. A primary residence is where hosts reside for a minimum of 8 months per year, with exceptions for professional obligations, health concerns, or unexpected events. However, hosts can rent out individual rooms within their primary residences without any duration restrictions, allowing them to do so for 365 days per year. On the other hand, if the property is a secondary residence where hosts spend less than 4 months per year, they are allowed to rent it out throughout the year, provided they have notified the city of their rental activities.

Tax Obligations for Airbnb Hosts in France

Taxes Across France

Airbnb hosts in France are required to pay tourist taxes. The amount of tax varies depending on the location of the accommodation and is usually around 0.83€ per person per night. Airbnb collects this tax on behalf of hosts and remits it to the local authorities.

Taxes in Paris

Airbnb hosts in Paris must fulfill their tax obligations by paying taxes on their rental income. This includes a tourist tax, known as "taxe de séjour," which varies depending on the accommodation type and the number of guests. Airbnb automatically collects this tax on behalf of hosts and remits it to the local authorities. Additionally, hosts must declare their rental income and fulfill income tax obligations, social contributions, and any other applicable taxes. It is essential to seek advice from a tax professional to ensure compliance with all tax requirements.

Health and Safety Requirements in Paris

To ensure the well-being of their guests, Airbnb hosts in Paris must adhere to a set of health and safety requirements. These include providing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, a first-aid kit, and a fire extinguisher. Hosts must also give guests clear instructions for emergencies and ensure that the property is well-maintained and hazards-free.

Insurance

Airbnb hosts in France must have liability insurance covering any damage caused by their guests. This insurance can be purchased through Airbnb or from a third-party insurance provider. Hosts must also inform their insurance provider that they rent their property on Airbnb.

Safety and Security

Airbnb hosts in France are required to comply with safety and security regulations. This includes having smoke detectors in each room, providing a fire extinguisher, and ensuring all electrical appliances are in good working order. Hosts must also provide a first aid kit and a list of emergency contacts.

Noise Regulations

Airbnb hosts in France must comply with noise regulations. This means guests must not make excessive noise between 10 pm and 7 am. Hosts must also inform their guests of these regulations and take action if they receive complaints from neighbors.

Insurance and Liability Considerations

Hosts should give careful consideration to obtaining appropriate insurance coverage for their Airbnb properties. While Airbnb provides its Host Guarantee and Host Protection Insurance, it is important to note that these coverages may not encompass all possible situations or damages. Therefore, hosts should review their existing home insurance policies and consult an insurance professional to ensure they have adequate coverage for their short-term rentals.

Rent Control and Tenant Protection in Paris

Paris has implemented strict rent control regulations to safeguard tenants and maintain housing affordability. If you are a tenant seeking to sublet your rented property on Airbnb, obtaining written permission from your landlord is a prerequisite. Moreover, the rental price charged for an Airbnb listing must not surpass the legally permitted rent for the property. Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to fines and legal consequences.

Building Regulations and Co-Ownership Rules

If the Airbnb property is situated within a co-owned building, hosts must conform to any building regulations or rules stipulated by the co-ownership association. Such rules may impose restrictions or even prohibit short-term rentals. Therefore, hosts must consult their co-ownership agreement and acquire any necessary permissions before listing their property on Airbnb.

Navigating Local Zoning Laws in Paris

Certain areas in Paris may enforce specific zoning laws or restrictions about short-term rentals. Hosts should familiarize themselves with any local regulations applicable to their neighborhood, ensuring their Airbnb listing remains in compliance. Neglecting to do so can result in fines, legal actions, or even removing the listing from Airbnb.

Enforcement and Penalties for Non-Compliance in Paris

Paris takes the enforcement of Airbnb regulations seriously, and hosts failing to comply may face significant penalties. Violations, such as failing to register the property or exceeding the 120-day rental limit, can result in fines ranging from several thousand euros to €50,000. In addition to financial penalties, non-compliant hosts may also face legal actions or suspend and remove their listings from Airbnb.

Respect for Neighbors

Airbnb hosts in France must respect their neighbors. This includes not causing any nuisance, not engaging in illegal activities, and not using the accommodation for commercial purposes other than short-term rentals.

Discrimination

Airbnb hosts in France are prohibited from discriminating against guests based on their race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other personal characteristic. Hosts who violate this rule may face legal action and sanctions from Airbnb.

Liability

Airbnb hosts in France are liable for any damage caused by their guests. Hosts are also responsible for ensuring that their guests comply with all Airbnb rules and regulations.

In Conclusion

The city of Paris has implemented a range of Airbnb regulations to preserve its charm, protect its housing market, and ensure the safety and well-being of both hosts and guests. As a host, it is crucial to remain informed and adhere to these rules to avoid potential fines, legal repercussions, or other consequences. Following the guidelines in this article and conducting further research, hosts can enjoy a successful and compliant Airbnb experience in the enchanting City of Lights.

How can Hostaway Help?

The Airbnb rules in France are crucial for hosts who want to operate legally and successfully. Maintaining these regulations can be complicated and time-consuming, so staying informed and compliant is vital. From registration and rental limits to tax obligations and safety standards, staying informed and compliant is essential to a smooth hosting experience. Hostaway, however, makes it easy to stay on top of them and easily manage your Airbnb listings in France. Hostaway is a comprehensive property management solution. With features like automated guest communication, calendar synchronization, and compliance monitoring, Hostaway helps hosts streamline operations while ensuring adherence to Airbnb's ever-evolving rules. Using Hostaway's powerful tools and resources, hosts can concentrate on providing exceptional guest experiences and maximizing their hosting potential. Let Hostaway be your trusted ally in navigating and thriving within the Airbnb rules in France by embracing the power of technology.