Starting in 2025, France is implementing a series of new regulations aimed at regulating short-term vacation rentals. The new laws provide municipalities with greater control over tourist accommodations while ensuring that rental properties meet environmental standards. Whether you're a property owner or considering entering the short-term rental market, it's essential to understand these new rules and prepare for their implementation.

Key changes to tourism rental regulations
Mandatory registration of primary residences
The most significant change for property owners is the requirement to register all vacation rental properties by May 20, 2026. All short-term rental properties must be registered through a dedicated online national service. This move is part of the French government's broader effort to regulate the growing number of tourist rentals.
Owners will need to provide proof that the rental property is their primary residence, which can be done by submitting a tax notice (avis d’imposition) with the rental property's address. This measure is designed to ensure that short-term rentals are not being exploited as commercial properties, especially in areas with housing shortages.
New tax deductions for rental income
The new law also brings changes to the tax deductions available for short-term rentals. Starting January 1, 2025, the tax deduction rates for vacation rentals will be revised as follows:
- Classified rentals and guest rooms: Owners of classified vacation rentals will receive a 50% tax deduction on rental income, up to 77,700 € annually. This is a reduction from the current 71% deduction for income up to 188,700 €.
- Unclassified rentals: For non-classified vacation rentals, the deduction will be reduced to 30%, and this applies to income up to 15,000 € annually, down from the previous 50% rate for income up to 77,700 €.
These changes aim to level the playing field between short-term rentals and other accommodation options while encouraging property owners to maintain high standards of quality.
Stricter energy performance requirements (DPE)
As part of France's broader Climat et Résilience law, all newly listed vacation rentals in high-demand areas will be required to meet stricter energy performance standards. By 2025, rental properties will need to have an energy performance diagnosis (DPE) rating of at least F, with further improvements required by 2028 (at least E). From 2034, all vacation rentals will need to achieve a rating between A and D.
These new energy efficiency standards are a response to the urgent need for France to reduce its carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency in residential properties. Owners have a 10-year window to comply with these regulations, and local mayors will have the authority to request proof of compliance.
Greater powers for local authorities
Local municipalities will have increased powers to regulate short-term rentals. Starting in 2025, local authorities will be able to set quotas on the number of vacation rental properties within their jurisdiction. This is part of an effort to preserve residential housing and prevent tourist rentals from contributing to housing shortages in certain areas.
Furthermore, municipalities will be able to restrict the number of days per year that primary residences can be rented out to tourists. Under the new rules, the maximum rental period will be limited to 90 days per year (down from 120 days). Property owners who exceed this limit could face civil fines of up to 15,000 €.
How property owners should prepare
For those already renting out properties or considering doing so, these new regulations mean it is crucial to stay informed and compliant. To avoid penalties and ensure smooth operations, owners should take the following steps:
- Register your property: Ensure that your property is registered as a primary residence by May 2026. Gather the necessary documentation, such as your tax notice, to prove the property’s status.
- Review your energy efficiency: Assess whether your rental property meets the new energy performance standards. If not, plan for necessary upgrades to comply with the 2025 requirements.
- Stay up to date with local regulations: Keep an eye on local municipal rules and restrictions, especially regarding the maximum number of days your property can be rented to tourists and whether additional registration is required.
- Consult with a lawyer or tax advisor: Given the complexity of these regulations, it is advisable to seek legal or financial advice to navigate the new rules, especially regarding tax deductions and co-ownership issues.
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