The amendments to the Building Code for Vienna also adapted the provisions on short-term rentals in private apartments. This restricts this type of rental. However, exceptions should still be possible.
The City of Vienna has introduced new rules that will apply from July 2024 and affect the short-term letting of apartments. According to the amendment to the building regulations, which was passed by the Vienna state parliament shortly before the end of 2023, landlords who want to rent out their Viennese apartment to tourists for more than 90 days a year will need an exceptional permit. This will apply from 01.07.2024.
However, there are exceptions, for example classic home sharing is permitted for a maximum of 90 days per year. This is subject to the condition that you do not give up your own residence in the apartment and also pay the local tax.
In order to obtain a permit, an application must be submitted to Municipal Department 37. It must contain a precise description of the apartments in question as well as the consent of the other owners in the residential building, provided it is a condominium property in accordance with the WEG. Permits are initially granted for a limited period of five years and generally only for half of the apartments in a building.
The costs for the permit amount to general fees in accordance with the Fees Act as well as administrative charges. It is strongly recommended that you apply for the permit in good time, as the approval process takes time and other requirements must be met, such as that the residential building is not located in a residential zone and was built without housing subsidies.
Violations of the new rules can be punished with fines of up to 50,000 euros or alternative custodial sentences of up to two weeks. However, there are exceptions for non-tourist short-term rentals outside the 90 days of home sharing.
