Bologna Short-Term Rental Regulation: A Guide For Airbnb Hosts

Starting a Short-Term Rental Business in Bologna

If you're considering starting a short-term rental business in Bologna, Italy, it's crucial to understand the local regulations and requirements. Bologna has specific rules in place to govern the operation of short-term rentals, such as those listed on booking platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. Here's an overview of what you need to know:

To legally operate a short-term rental in Bologna, you must comply with the following requirements:

1. Obtain a Certified Start of Activity Report (SCIA) and submit it to the Municipality of Bologna. This document notifies the authorities of your intention to operate a short-term rental business.
2. Register with the Collection and Control Office to pay the required tourist tax. In Bologna, this tax is 6% of the listing price, with a maximum of €5 per person per night for reservations of 5 nights or fewer.
3. Display your assigned national identification code (CIN) on all listings and advertisements for your short-term rental. This code is obtained through an automated procedure and helps authorities identify and regulate short-term rental properties.

Additionally, according to a Reddit thread, it's common for landlords in Italy to prefer meeting potential tenants in person before renting out their properties, even for short-term rentals. This is likely due to concerns about the tenant's reliability and the potential for property damage.

Short-Term Rental Licensing Requirement in Bologna

In Bologna, there are specific licensing requirements that must be met to operate a short-term rental business legally. According to the information provided in the search results, the following steps are necessary:

• Obtain a Certified Start of Activity Report (SCIA): Hosts must complete and submit an SCIA (Segnalazione Certificata di Inizio Attività) to the Municipality of Bologna. This document serves as a notification of your intention to operate a short-term rental business.
• Register for Tourist Tax: Short-term rental hosts are required to register with the Collection and Control Office to pay the mandatory tourist tax. In Bologna, this tax is 6% of the listing price, with a maximum of €5 per person per night for reservations of 5 nights or fewer.
• Display National Identification Code (CIN): Upon registering, hosts will be assigned a national identification code (CIN) through an automated procedure. This code must be displayed on all listings and advertisements for the short-term rental property.

It's important to note that these requirements are in addition to the general regulations for short-term rentals in Italy, which include:

1. Visiting the local police headquarters to request access to the Allogiati Web portal, where hosts must submit images of guests' passports or national identification upon check-in.
2. Preparing a written contract for guests to sign at check-in for rentals for less than 30 days unless the rental is categorized as a "furnished tourist accommodation."
3. Complying with tax regulations, which can vary depending on whether the host is operating as a professional or non-professional. Non-professional hosts may be subject to the Cedolare Secca tax regime, a flat 21% tax on rental income.

Failure to comply with these regulations can result in significant fines and penalties. For example, renting out more than four properties without proper licensing can lead to fines ranging from €2,000 to €10,000.

It's crucial for short-term rental hosts in Bologna to familiarize themselves with the local and national regulations to ensure they are operating legally and avoiding potential legal issues or fines.

Required Documents for Bologna Short-Term Rentals

When renting out a property for short-term stays in Bologna, hosts are typically required to provide certain documents to comply with local regulations. Here are some of the common documents that may be necessary:

1. Identification Documents: Hosts must provide a valid form of identification, such as a passport or national ID card, to verify their identity.
2. Proof of Property Ownership: Landlords or property owners must provide documentation proving their ownership of the rental property. This could include a deed, property title, or other legal documents.
3. Rental Contract or Lease Agreement: A written contract or lease agreement between the host and the guest is often required, especially for rentals lasting less than 30 days.
4. Energy Performance Certificate (Attestato di Prestazione Energetica - APE): This document certifies the energy efficiency of the rental property and is mandatory for all residential properties in Italy.
5. Safety Certifications: Depending on the type of property, hosts may need to provide safety certifications related to electrical systems, gas installations, fire safety equipment, and other safety measures.
6. Registration with Local Authorities: Hosts must register their short-term rental activity with the Municipality of Bologna by submitting a Certified Start of Activity Report (SCIA).
7. Tourist Tax Registration: Short-term rental hosts in Bologna are required to register with the Collection and Control Office to pay the mandatory tourist tax, which is 6% of the listing price with a maximum of €5 per person per night for reservations of 5 nights or fewer.
8. National Identification Code (CIN): Upon registering with the local authorities, hosts will be assigned a CIN code, which must be displayed on all listings and advertisements for the short-term rental property.

It's important to note that these requirements may change over time, and it's advisable to consult with local authorities or legal professionals to ensure compliance with the most up-to-date regulations. Failure to provide the necessary documents or comply with the regulations can result in fines or penalties.

Bologna Short-Term Rental Taxes

When operating a short-term rental in Bologna, hosts are required to comply with various tax obligations. Here are some key points regarding taxes for short-term rentals in Bologna:

1. Tourist Tax: Short-term rental hosts in Bologna must collect and remit a tourist tax from their guests. This tax is calculated as 6% of the listing price, with a maximum of €5 per person per night for reservations of 5 nights or fewer.
2. Income Tax: Income earned from short-term rentals in Bologna is subject to income tax. Non-professional hosts (those renting out less than five properties) can opt for the "cedolare secca" tax regime, which is a flat 21% tax on rental income. This tax is withheld by platforms like Airbnb and remitted directly to the Italian tax authorities.
3. VAT: Short-term rental hosts in Bologna may be required to register for and charge VAT (Value Added Tax) if they are considered to be operating a business. This is generally the case if a host rents out more than four properties per tax year.
4. Registration and Reporting: To legally operate a short-term rental in Bologna, hosts must obtain a Certified Start of Activity Report (SCIA) and submit it to the Municipality of Bologna. They must also register with the Collection and Control Office to pay the required tourist tax.
5. National Identification Code (CIN): Upon registering, hosts will be assigned a national identification code (CIN) through an automated procedure. This code must be displayed on all listings and advertisements for the short-term rental property.
6. Penalties: Failure to comply with the regulations for short-term rentals in Bologna can result in significant fines. For example, renting out more than four properties without proper licensing can lead to fines ranging from €2,000 to €10,000.

It's crucial for short-term rental hosts in Bologna to familiarize themselves with the local and national tax regulations to ensure they are operating legally and avoiding potential legal issues or fines. Consulting with a tax professional is recommended to ensure full compliance with the complex tax requirements.

Italy Wide Short-Term Rental Rules

In Italy, there are national regulations that govern short-term rentals across the country. Here are some of the key rules that apply to short-term rental hosts in Italy:

1. Definition of Short-Term Rental: According to Italian law, a rental agreement is considered a "short-term rental" if the duration does not exceed 30 consecutive days per guest.
2. Contract Requirement: For short-term rentals, hosts are required to provide a written contract to their guests. However, this contract does not need to be registered with the Italian tax authorities.
3. Guest Registration: Hosts must register their guests' personal information, including passport or national ID details, with the local police authorities within 24 hours of check-in. This is typically done through an online portal called "Allogiati Web."
4. Tax Obligations: Short-term rental income is subject to taxation in Italy. Non-professional hosts (those renting out less than five properties) can opt for the "cedolare secca" tax regime, which is a flat 21% tax on rental income. This tax is withheld by platforms like Airbnb and remitted directly to the Italian tax authorities.
5. National Identification Code (CIN): Upon registering their rental activity, hosts will be assigned a national identification code (CIN) through an automated procedure. This code must be displayed on all listings and advertisements for the short-term rental property.
6. Rental Activity Notification: If a host rents out more than four properties, they are considered to be operating a business. In this case, they must submit a Certified Start of Activity Report (SCIA) to the local municipality, notifying them of their rental activity.
7. Safety Requirements: For hosts operating as a business, there are specific safety requirements that must be met, such as the installation of combustible gas and carbon monoxide detectors, as well as portable fire extinguishers.
8. Penalties: Failure to comply with the regulations for short-term rentals in Italy can result in significant fines. For example, renting out more than four properties without proper licensing can lead to fines ranging from €2,000 to €10,000.

It's crucial for short-term rental hosts in Italy to familiarize themselves with these national regulations, as well as any additional local rules that may apply in their specific municipality or region. Consulting with legal professionals or local authorities is recommended to ensure full compliance and avoid potential penalties.

Does Bologna Strictly Enforce STR Rules? Is Bologna Airbnb friendly?

Based on the information gathered from forums like Bigger Pockets and Reddit, it appears that Bologna is not particularly Airbnb-friendly, and the city does enforce its short-term rental (STR) rules quite strictly.

On Reddit, several users have shared experiences of facing difficulties in finding Airbnb listings or apartment rentals in Bologna. One user mentioned that despite contacting around 45 properties on Idealista, a popular real estate platform, only two ever replied, suggesting a tight rental market and potential challenges for short-term rentals.

Another Redditor recounted an experience of staying in an Airbnb in Bologna where the host had imposed stringent rules, such as charging fees for laundry, using the coffee machine, and even talking to neighbors. This indicates that hosts in Bologna may be wary of operating short-term rentals and try to mitigate potential issues by imposing strict guidelines.

Furthermore, according to the information provided in the search results, Bologna has specific regulations in place for short-term rentals. Hosts are required to obtain a Certified Start of Activity Report (SCIA) and submit it to the Municipality of Bologna, register with the Collection and Control Office to pay the mandatory tourist tax, and display a national identification code (CIN) on all listings.

Failure to comply with these regulations can result in significant fines. For instance, renting out more than four properties without proper licensing can lead to fines ranging from €2,000 to €10,000, as mentioned in one of the search results.

Based on these insights, it can be concluded that Bologna is not particularly Airbnb-friendly, and the city takes a strict approach to enforcing its short-term rental rules. While some hosts may still operate Airbnb listings in Bologna, they do so at the risk of facing penalties and fines if caught violating the regulations.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Bologna

Starting a short-term rental business in Bologna, Italy, requires compliance with specific regulations and requirements. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Obtain a Certified Start of Activity Report (SCIA): You must complete and submit an SCIA (Segnalazione Certificata di Inizio Attività) to the Municipality of Bologna, notifying them of your intention to operate a short-term rental business.
2. Register for Tourist Tax: Short-term rental hosts in Bologna are required to register with the Collection and Control Office to pay the mandatory tourist tax, which is 6% of the listing price, with a maximum of €5 per person per night for reservations of 5 nights or fewer.
3. Acquire a National Identification Code (CIN): Upon registering your rental activity, you will be assigned a CIN code through an automated procedure. This code must be displayed on all listings and advertisements for your short-term rental property.
4. Visit the Local Police Headquarters: You must visit your local police headquarters and request access to the Allogiati Web portal, where you will be required to submit images of your guests' passports or national identification upon check-in.
5. Prepare a Written Contract: For rentals less than 30 days, you must provide a written contract for your guests to sign at check-in, unless your rental is categorized as a "furnished tourist accommodation." Also make sure to provide them with house rules that include usage instructions, parking areas, pet policies, and local regulations.
6. Comply with Tax Regulations: Depending on whether you operate as a professional or non-professional host, you may be subject to different tax regimes. Non-professional hosts (those renting out less than five properties) can opt for the "cedolare secca" tax regime, which is a flat 21% tax on rental income.
7. Ensure Safety Requirements: If you are operating as a business (renting out more than four properties), you must comply with specific safety requirements, such as installing combustible gas and carbon monoxide detectors, as well as portable fire extinguishers.
8. Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits: Depending on your specific situation, you may need to obtain additional licenses or permits, such as a general business license or a short-term rental license, to ensure compliance with local regulations. It's also recommended to obtain short-term rental insurance to help protect yourself in case anything happens.
9. Familiarize Yourself with Local Regulations: Bologna may have additional local regulations or requirements that you must adhere to. It's crucial to research and understand all applicable rules and regulations to avoid potential fines or penalties.
10. Consider Consulting Professionals: Given the complexity of regulations surrounding short-term rentals in Bologna, it may be beneficial to consult with legal professionals, property managers, accountants, or local authorities to ensure full compliance and avoid any potential issues.

Remember, failure to comply with the regulations for short-term rentals in Bologna can result in significant fines, so it's essential to follow all necessary steps and stay up-to-date with any changes in the laws or requirements.

Who to Contact in Bologna about Short-Term Rental Regulations and Zoning?

If you have questions or need further assistance regarding short-term rental regulations and zoning in Bologna, you can contact the following authorities:

1. Municipality of Bologna (Comune di Bologna)

Address: Piazza Maggiore, 6, 40124 Bologna BO, Italy
Phone: +39 051 219 4444
Email: urp@comune.bologna.it

This is the main municipal office where you can inquire about obtaining the required Certified Start of Activity Report (SCIA) and registering for the tourist tax. They can provide guidance on the specific requirements and procedures for operating a short-term rental in Bologna.

2. Collection and Control Office (Ufficio Riscossione e Controllo)

Address: Via Oberdan, 24, 40126 Bologna BO, Italy
Phone: +39 051 219 4800
Email: riscossioneecontrollo@comune.bologna.it

This office handles the registration process for paying the mandatory tourist tax for short-term rentals in Bologna. You can contact them for information on tax rates, payment methods, and any related inquiries.

3. Local Police Headquarters (Questura di Bologna)

Address: Via del Navile, 1, 40126 Bologna BO, Italy
Phone: +39 051 6401

As per national regulations, you must visit the local police headquarters to request access to the Allogiati Web portal. This portal is used to submit images of guests' passports or national identification upon check-in for short-term rentals.

It's advisable to contact these authorities directly to ensure you have the most up-to-date information and guidance on short-term rental regulations in Bologna. Additionally, you may want to consult with legal professionals or local property managers for more personalized advice based on your specific circumstances.

What Do Airbnb Hosts in Bologna on Reddit and Bigger Pockets Think about Local Regulations?

Based on the information gathered from Reddit and Bigger Pockets forums, Airbnb hosts in Bologna seem to have mixed opinions about the local regulations governing short-term rentals in the city.

Reddit (/r/bologna)

Some users express frustration with the stringent regulations and the difficulty in obtaining the necessary permits and licenses to operate an Airbnb legally in Bologna.

Others acknowledge the importance of following the rules, such as obtaining the Certified Start of Activity Report (SCIA) and registering for the tourist tax, to avoid potential fines and penalties.

There are concerns about the housing crisis in Bologna, with some users suggesting that the proliferation of Airbnb rentals may be contributing to the shortage of affordable long-term housing options for locals.

Reddit (/r/AirBnB)

Several hosts share their experiences with the requirement to collect and submit guests' passport information to local authorities, as mandated by Italian law.

Some hosts express frustration with the strict rules and regulations, particularly regarding the penalties imposed for minor infractions, such as leaving windows or lights on upon check-out.

However, others recognize the importance of complying with the regulations to maintain a positive reputation and avoid legal issues.

Bigger Pockets

In the Bigger Pockets forums, there is limited discussion specifically about Bologna, but some users share their experiences with operating Airbnb rentals in other parts of Italy.

Some users highlight the potential for success in the Italian short-term rental market, provided that the numbers work and the necessary regulations are followed.

Others express concerns about the complexity of the regulations and the potential for fines or penalties if not properly adhered to.

Overall, the sentiment among Airbnb hosts in Bologna on these forums seems to be a mix of frustration with the strict regulations, acknowledgment of the importance of compliance, and concerns about the impact of short-term rentals on the local housing market. However, many hosts also recognize the potential for success in the Bologna market if the necessary steps are taken to operate legally and responsibly.

Disclaimer: While we here at BNBCalc strive to keep all of our city regulation guides updated and accurate with all the latest local laws, we still do not suggest using them as your sole or primary source for local regulations. We also do not recommend you rely on the third-party sources we link to or reference, and we are not responsible for any of the information on these third-party sites. These guides are for entertainment purposes only and only provide basic information and should not be considered as legal advice.

We highly recommend directly contacting the responsible parties for each city and hearing what their officials have to say. Ultimately, it's your responsibility as an investor to ensure you fully comply with the local laws, and it's best to speak with professionals before making an investment decision.