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Italy: Florence plans to expand its ban on new short-term tourist rentals beyond the city’s UNESCO-listed historic centre in an effort to help current housing pressure and reduce the impact of overtourism.
The proposed ban would extend restrictions on new Airbnb-style rentals to other neighbourhoods including San Jacopopino, Statuto and parts of Oltrarno, increasing the number of homes covered by the ban to more than 100,000 (from the current 35,500).
Mayor Sara Funaro described the ban as the first of its kind in Italy. The aim is to balance tourism with the daily lives of residents. Funaro said: “The objective is clear, to continue our commitment to protecting residential life and guaranteeing a sustainable balance between tourism and the daily lives of our citizens.”
The city first introduced restrictions on short-term rentals back in 2023. Existing short-term rental operators will still be allowed to continue under current permits until May 31, 2028, although Florence plans to introduce a new licensing system after that date.
City officials said the rapid growth of tourist rentals has contributed to rising housing costs and made it more difficult for local families and students to find affordable accommodation.
Critics of the plan, including Property Managers Italia, have voiced their concerns saying the restrictions could hurt local tourism businesses and workers tied to the hospitality sector.
Highlights:
- Florence plans to expand its ban on new short-term tourist rentals beyond the UNESCO-listed historic centre to additional neighbourhoods across the city.
- The proposed restrictions would increase the number of homes covered by the short-term rental ban from about 35,500 to more than 100,000.
- Florence first introduced restrictions on new Airbnb-style rentals in 2023 as rising housing costs affected local families and students.
- Existing short-term rental operators will be allowed to continue under current permits until May 31, 2028, before a new licensing system is introduced.
- Critics including Property Managers Italia said the proposed restrictions could negatively impact tourism businesses and hospitality workers across Florence.
