New Regulations for Short-Term Rentals in Italy

As of September 1, 2024, new regulations governing short-term rentals in Italy will come into force, following a preparatory period aimed at streamlining compliance and enforcement. Central to these regulations is the introduction of the National Identification Code (CIN), which will be managed through the newly established Database of Hospitality Facilities (BDSR). This article provides a detailed overview of the upcoming changes and how they will impact the short-term rental sector.

The National Identification Code (CIN) for Short-Term Rentals: What It Is and How It Works

The National Identification Code (CIN) is a unique identifier assigned to all hospitality operators—both hotel and non-hotel establishments—through the BDSR platform managed by the Ministry of Tourism. This code is mandatory for all short-term rental listings, as stipulated by Article 13-ter of Legislative Decree 145/2023. The CIN must be displayed prominently at the rental property and included in all rental advertisements, both online and offline.

The primary objective of the CIN is to streamline data integration at both local and national levels, facilitating better coordination and enhancing regulatory oversight. Registered operators can use the BDSR platform to access and update data related to their properties and report any issues.

CIN Implementation Phases and Deadlines

The requirement to obtain a CIN will officially take effect on September 1, 2024, following the publication of the relevant notice in the Official Gazette. The rollout of this obligation will follow specific timelines:

• New CIN Applicants: Operators obtaining the CIN for the first time must comply within 60 days of the notice's publication. Failure to do so will result in penalties.
• Existing CIR Holders: Operators who already possess a Regional Identification Code (CIR) and wish to convert it to a CIN will have 120 days to complete the process.

New Obligations and Requirements for Hospitality Operators

To obtain a CIN, hospitality operators must apply through the BDSR platform, where the Ministry of Tourism will issue the code. If an operator already has a CIR, their compliance and data accuracy will be pre-verified. If not, they must provide detailed property information, including cadastral data, and demonstrate compliance with necessary safety standards before receiving the CIN.

These safety requirements include the installation of operational gas and carbon monoxide detectors, as well as legally compliant portable fire extinguishers. Additionally, properties used for short-term or tourist rentals under entrepreneurial management must meet all state and regional safety regulations for facilities.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

The new regulations also introduce stringent penalties for non-compliance. The fines vary depending on the nature of the violation, with amounts doubling for repeat offenses. Enforcement of these penalties will be carried out by the Revenue Agency (Agenzia delle Entrate) and the Guardia di Finanza (Finance Police).

• Lack of a CIN: Fines range from €800 to €8,000.
• Failure to Display the CIN: Fines range from €500 to €5,000.
• Non-Compliance with Safety Requirements: Fines range from €600 to €6,000.
• Failure to File a Certified Notice of Business Start (SCIA): For those renting more than four properties without submitting a SCIA, fines range from €2,000 to €10,000.

The introduction of the CIN and the BDSR platform marks a significant shift in the regulation of short-term rentals in Italy. These measures aim to bring greater transparency, safety, and regulatory compliance to the sector. As the September 1, 2024, deadline approaches, all operators in the hospitality industry should take steps to understand these new obligations and ensure they are fully compliant to avoid substantial penalties.

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