Cape Town Airbnb owners to see property rates more than double under proposed new rules - EWN

Cape Town Airbnb owners could face sharply higher property rates under proposed new rules, while some may opt to switch their properties to long-term rentals.

The City of Cape Town has published a draft short-term letting by-law for public comment, proposing a registration system for Airbnb and other short-term rental properties.

Under the proposal, properties listed on booking platforms would have to register with the city and display a registration number on their listings.

Booking platforms, owners and operators would also be required to share availability data with the city.

Property expert Rowan Alexander said the proposed system could have a significant financial impact on owners whose properties are available for short-term letting for more than 50% of annual room nights.