01/09/2026
⚠️ SHORT-TERM LET OPERATORS IN THE HIGHLANDS – IMPORTANT PLANNING UPDATE ⚠️
If you currently operate a secondary short-term let outside an existing Short-Term Let Control Area, this is something you should be paying close attention to.
The Highland Council has consulted on proposals to introduce two further Short-Term Let Control Areas (STLCAs) covering large parts of the Highlands:
📍 Inverness City – including Inverness West, Central, Ness-side and Millburn, along with parts of Inverness South such as Westhill, Milton of Leys and Slackbuie.
📍 Highland Rural – including Lochaber; Wester Ross, Strathpeffer and Lochalsh; Sutherland; Skye and Raasay; Aird and Loch Ness; and parts of Inverness South including Tomatin and Daviot.
Why does this matter?
Within a designated Short-Term Let Control Area, planning permission is always required for a future change of use of a residential home to a secondary short-term let – i.e. a property where the owner does not normally live and which is rented out on a short-term basis.
Outside a control area, the planning position can be different, with permission currently required where the use amounts to a material change of use.
⚠️ So, if your property is currently outside a control area, don't assume it will remain that way.
The proposals could significantly expand the parts of the Highlands covered by Short-Term Let Control Area rules.
The consultation has now closed and responses are being analysed, so operators, prospective purchasers and anyone considering converting a residential property to short-term letting should keep a close eye on what happens next.
It is also important to remember that a Short-Term Let licence and planning permission are separate matters. Holding a licence does not necessarily mean that you have, or do not require, the appropriate planning permission.
Please share this with anyone currently operating – or considering operating – a short-term let in the Highlands and Contact STL Solutions Today!
