Short term rental regulations Czech Republic: What landlords need to consider in the future

In October 2024, the Czech Ministry of Regional Development issued a regulation on short-term rentals. The new methodological guide to clarify the rules for short-term rentals applies in particular to apartments offered on platforms such as Airbnb. The Ecovis experts know what landlords must prepare for.

As formal legislative amendments are in process, this current guideline serves as an intermediary step, helping authorities distinguish between rentals and accommodation services.

Defining rental and accommodation services

A key component of the Ministry’s methodology is the clear distinction between “rental” and “accommodation” services, each carrying different regulatory requirements. Under current Czech law, long-term rentals fulfil the tenant’s housing needs and typically require less regulatory oversight. In contrast, accommodation services, such as those provided through Airbnb, satisfy only temporary accommodation needs and are considered as business activity. This classification requires providers to adhere to stricter business regulations, including obtaining a business license, registering guests, and potentially paying VAT and local accommodation fees. The methodology thus helps clarify that short-term rentals intended for temporary stays fall under accommodation laws and not housing rental laws.

Do you provide housing? Get advice from experts to ensure the new requirements are implemented correctly.

JUDr. Mojmír Ježek, Ph.D., Partner, ECOVIS ježek, advokátní kancelář s.r.o.

Requirements for Airbnb premises

According to the Ministry’s guidance, premises used for short-term accommodation must be licensed and properly categorised as “accommodation units” under the Czech Building Act. This requirement contrasts with standard apartments, which are designated for residential use. Building authorities can inspect properties and issue fines if they identify non-compliance. For instance, a property classified as residential cannot legally operate as an Airbnb without first obtaining a re-licensing permit as an accommodation unit. The Ministry also claims that the case of use “only to a minimal extent (both in area and time) for accommodation purposes” and further use by the landlord for living purposes, may mean that these stricter requirements may not be fulfilled.

For further information please contact:

JUDr. Mojmír Ježek, Ph.D., Partner, ECOVIS ježek, advokátní kancelář s.r.o., Prague, Czech Republic
Email: mojmir.jezek@ecovislegal.cz