Glasgow considers short-term let licence exemption for Commonwealth Games

Glasgow City Council is exploring a temporary exemption from short-term let licensing to help meet accommodation demand during the 2026 Commonwealth Games. Councillors are expected to review the proposal this week and decide whether to launch a public consultation on amending the city’s current policy.

The Games, scheduled from 23 July to 2 August 2026, will bring around 3,000 athletes from up to 74 nations and an estimated 500,000 ticketed spectators. Officials anticipate a significant spike in demand for accommodation across the city, prompting calls for greater flexibility in short-term letting rules.

Under national legislation, local authorities can authorise up to three exemption periods per calendar year, totalling no more than six weeks. However, Glasgow’s current short-term let policy—introduced in September 2022—does not permit temporary exemptions. The policy is subject to review every three years, and the upcoming Games are being cited as an exceptional circumstance warranting reconsideration.

The council report notes that the event was not anticipated when the original policy was adopted and urges committee members to assess the potential impact of allowing exemptions. If approved, property owners would still need to apply for a temporary exemption, with the licensing authority responsible for setting fees and processing timescales.

Other cities, including Edinburgh, already allow exemptions during major events such as the Fringe Festival and Hogmanay. Glasgow officials argue that similar provisions could ease pressure on the city’s accommodation infrastructure and support the successful hosting of the Games.

The proposal will be subject to full public consultation if councillors agree to proceed.