Airbnb regulations in Oxford - Host Guide 2023

Oxford, a city renowned for its rich history, prestigious university, and captivating architecture, welcomes a steady stream of visitors from around the globe. This vibrant city not only boasts world-class educational institutions but also hosts important annual events that attract a large number of tourists. As a result, Oxford has become a sought-after holiday destination, offering immense opportunities for aspiring hosts in the short-term rental market.

Oxford Short-Term Rentals Market Overview:

Before delving into the regulations, let's take a quick glance at the state of the short-term rentals market in Oxford.

According to data from Airdna, an industry-leading vacation rental data platform, Oxford experiences a healthy £148 average room rate and 70% occupancy rate. The average monthly revenue generated from short-term rentals in this thriving city is £2,037 and demonstrates its potential as an attractive investment option for hosts.

If you're considering investing in a short-term rental property in Oxford, this article will provide you with essential information about the regulations you need to be aware of. By understanding and complying with these guidelines, you can ensure a successful and hassle-free hosting experience.

What are the main policies for Airbnb rentals in Oxford?

In Oxford, the main policies governing Airbnb rentals revolve around planning permissions, licensing requirements, taxation, and safety regulations. It's important for hosts to understand and comply with these policies to operate their short-term rentals legally and responsibly.

Do you need planning permission or any other legal status of the property?

Fortunately, if you're considering becoming an Airbnb host in Oxford, you're in luck. Landlords in Oxford can enjoy relative freedom in terms of short-term rental regulations. In most cases, there is no specific requirement for planning permission or any other legal status of the property solely for short-term rentals. However, it's always recommended to check with the local authorities to confirm if any exceptions or special circumstances apply to your specific property or situation.

In 2022, Oxford City Council raised concern over certain neighborhoods in the city that may be "hollowed out" as more properties are converted into short-term rentals, reducing the availability of long-term housing options for residents.

City councillors have called for stricter regulations to address these concerns and ensure the preservation of community dynamics. City Council’s cabinet agreed to progress with plans to stop domestic waste collections from such addresses, making landlords pay for disposal in a bid to discourage short-term letting of potential homes. 

Does the 90-day rule apply to short-term rental properties in Oxford?

In Oxford, the 90-day rental rule does not apply to properties for short-term rentals. Unlike London, where the 90-day rule restricts the number of days a property can be rented out for short-term stays without specific planning permission, there is currently no such restriction in Oxford.

This means that hosts in Oxford have more flexibility in terms of the number of days they can rent out their properties to guests. However, it's important to note that other regulations and requirements may still apply, such as licensing, taxation, and health and safety regulations. Hosts should always stay informed about the specific regulations applicable to their area and consult with local authorities or seek professional advice to ensure compliance with all relevant rules and obligations.

When it comes to taxes on short-term property rentals in Oxford, there are a few key aspects to be aware of, including council tax and tax allowances.

Council Tax:

If you're providing short-term rental stays in Oxford, it's important to note that you will be liable to pay council tax on the property. This applies even if you are eligible for a reduction or exemption. However, there may be cases where you could be exempt from council tax if you are liable for business rates. It's advisable to check with the local authorities or visit their official website to confirm the specific requirements and exemptions related to council tax for short-term rentals.

Tax-Free Allowance:

In the UK, there is a tax-free allowance specifically related to letting out accommodation in your home, known as the "Rent a Room" scheme. As of the time of writing, you are allowed to make up to £7,500 annually tax-free from letting out accommodation in your permanent residence or main home.

This allowance applies to hosts who are renting out a room or a portion of their primary residence. However, if you are renting out a second home or property that is not your main residence, the regular rental income tax rules will apply. To obtain detailed and up-to-date information on the tax regulations and allowances, it is recommended to visit the official government website and explore the "Rent a Room" scheme section.

It's crucial to stay informed about the tax obligations and regulations pertaining to short-term property rentals in Oxford. Consulting with a tax professional or accessing official government resources will provide you with the most accurate and current information tailored to your specific circumstances. By understanding and complying with the tax requirements, you can ensure a smooth and compliant hosting experience while maximizing any applicable tax benefits.

Business rates on a short-term property in Oxford

The requirement to charge business rates on your short-term property in Oxford depends on the number of days you let it out within a given year. If you let out your property for short-term stays for more than 140 days in a year, you may be liable to pay business rates instead of the usual council tax.

Business rates are a type of tax levied on non-residential properties that are used for commercial purposes. In the context of short-term rentals, if your property meets the threshold of 140 days or more of rental activity in a year, it may be classified as a business property for the purpose of taxation. This means you would be responsible for paying business rates instead of council tax.

It's important to note that the specific rules and regulations surrounding business rates can be complex and subject to change. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with the local authorities or a qualified tax professional to understand the exact requirements and implications for your property in Oxford. By staying informed and complying with the appropriate tax regulations, you can ensure that you are meeting your tax obligations correctly.

About Us:

If you're searching for a convenient and time-saving solution for key management and check-ins in Oxford, look no further than KeyNest Points.

With KeyNest, you can securely drop off your keys at one of our 4,000 points, typically located in local stores or cafes. This allows your guests, cleaners, or contractors to easily retrieve the keys when needed.

Plus, each time the key is picked up or returned, you'll receive a notification, keeping you informed every step of the way.

With our extensive network of points in Oxford, you'll likely find one just a stone's throw away from your property. Discover the convenience of KeyNest Points today by visiting our website at https://keynest.com/.