https://www.dutchnews.nl/2023/05/amsterdam-was-wrong-to-ban-airbnb-rentals-in-three-areas-court
The Dutch Council of State has just ruled that the city of Amsterdam could not ban short-term rentals in certain areas of the city: “A total ban on short-term rentals in certain neighborhoods is an excessive measure,” the court said in its ruling. “This can only be justified if there are good reasons related to the objective and scope of the laws governing housing. The city’s political authorities should first investigate other, less drastic measures to achieve the objective. ” The ruling suggested that instead of a ban, the city could have investigated whether implementing a quota (*) on short-term rentals would have had an effect, or whether revoking the licenses of establishments causing nuisances would have been sufficient to achieve the objective.
We fully support the position of our colleague Maarten Bruinsma, President of Amsterdam Gastvrij: “We are pleased that the Court has confirmed that a total ban on short-term rentals is not proportionate. We hope that the Municipality will take a step back and analyze the data before venturing into any restrictions whatsoever. Our Association will continue to fight for fair and balanced tourism policies that allow well-intentioned hosts to participate in the market.” STR-Belgium is fighting the same battle.
(*) STR-Belgium also advocates the implementation of quotas in certain areas of Belgian cities where this is objectively justified by statistical studies.
