Florence is considering banning Airbnb in order to promote long-term residency

The charming Italian city of Florence is following several other European cities in enacting strategies to prohibit the use of residential homes in its historic center for short-term rentals in an effort to control the growth of Airbnb and comparable short-term rental platforms, according to Reuters on June 2. In a recent statement, Mayor Dario Nardella said that no new permits for Airbnb and comparable rentals would be distributed. For the time being, existing short-term rentals will continue to be available, as this policy does not apply retroactively.

With Florence drawing more tourists and concentrating on recuperating from the aftermath of the pandemic, those who had intended to spend a brief period in the city will now have to explore other lodging options beyond the heart of the city.

According to Travel Noire, the primary aim of this policy is to tackle the ongoing problem of a lack of affordable housing in Florence. The city center has experienced a surge in the conversion of several buildings into short-term rentals like Airbnbs in recent years. This trend has made it more difficult for locals to secure affordable housing.

The Italian hospitality industry trade group Federalberghi has reportedly expressed support for restricting short-term rentals, as indicated by the Mayor EU. The president of the Florence branch, Francesco Bechi, has voiced his approval of the policy, noting that it will help with the city’s housing crisis and contribute to restoring the city’s social fabric.

Bechi believes this action will send a message to the federal government, prompting them to implement similar policies across the country. He added that a minimum stay rule of two nights, as proposed by the national government, might not have the intended impact.

Along with Florence, several major European cities have restricted short-term rentals to make room for locals in need of long-term housing. These cities include Lisbon, Paris, and Barcelona. These steps are an essential component of an overall effort to keep the tourism sector’s financial benefits in check while simultaneously preserving affordable housing and the well-being of the local community.

Evie Blanco is a journalist with nearly a decade of experience born in the Dominican Republic and raised in Queens, New York. She is extremely well-versed in hip-hop music and culture and is always aware of its developments. Whether it’s the latest in pop culture, a fascinating foreign destination, a truly amazing new restaurant, or breaking news, she loves to write about it all. Evie can be reached at evieblanco@detourxp.com.