French ELAN Regulation: What Hosts Need to Know

If you're hosting a property in France, understanding the ELAN regulation (Évolution du Logement, de l'Aménagement et du Numérique) is essential. This guide explains the key rules and requirements that keep your hosting compliant and your business running smoothly.

What is the ELAN Regulation?

The ELAN regulation is a French law that governs short-term rental properties. It sets standards for how holiday rental hosts must operate while ensuring transparency and legal compliance with local housing requirements.

Do I Need to Register My Property?

Yes, all hosts must register their property with local authorities. Registration promotes transparency and ensures compliance with French housing laws. Contact your local municipality (mairie) to complete the registration process and obtain your registration number, which should be added to your Holidu Host Account.

How Many Days Can I Rent Out My Property?

The maximum rental period depends on your property type:

• Primary residence: Generally 120 days per year, though some municipalities impose stricter limits (such as 90 days)
• Secondary residence: No national maximum, but may require prior authorization from your municipality, especially in larger cities

Track your rental days carefully to stay within these limits and avoid penalties.

What About Guest Declarations?

You must declare the number of guests staying at your property to local authorities. This requirement supports tax compliance and helps municipalities monitor holiday rental activity in their areas.

What is "Meublé de Tourisme" Classification?

The "Meublé de Tourisme" classification is a voluntary certification that gives your holiday home legal recognition and increases credibility with guests. Properties are evaluated on comfort, amenities, and service, then rated from 1 to 5 stars. Benefits include better market visibility, possible tax reductions, and a recognized quality standard.

To apply, contact an accredited organization in your area for an assessment.

How Do I Register My Property?

Follow these steps:

1. Visit your local mairie (town hall) to obtain registration forms and requirements
2. Complete the registration form with details about your property, including address, size, and rental capacity
3. Submit the form and receive your registration number
4. Add your registration number to the "General Information" section of your Holidu Host Account

Tips for Staying Compliant

• Keep detailed records: Maintain a log of all rental days to ensure you stay within the 120-day limit
• Stay updated: Regulations evolve, so check official sources regularly and contact local authorities when needed
• Use your Holidu account: Track bookings and receive reminders about upcoming compliance deadlines
• Declare guests accurately: Always report guest numbers to authorities as required

What Does Holidu Do to Support Compliance?

As a hosting platform, Holidu is required to keep you informed about your legal obligations and support your compliance with French regulations. This includes providing resources, reminders, and features that help you track bookings and manage deadlines.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I exceed the 120-day rental limit?

Exceeding the rental day limit can result in fines and legal penalties. Some municipalities may also require you to convert your property to a long-term rental or cease short-term rental activity. Always track your days carefully and stay within local limits.

Can I apply for the Meublé de Tourisme classification in all areas?

Yes, this classification is available nationwide. However, requirements and the assessment process may vary by region. Contact your local tourism office or an accredited organization to learn about local procedures.

Do I need to inform guests about ELAN regulations?

While not legally required to provide full regulatory details, it's good practice to inform guests about house rules and any specific requirements related to your property's registration or guest declaration obligations.

What if my municipality has stricter rules than the national 120-day limit?

Local regulations always take precedence. If your municipality imposes a lower limit (such as 90 days), you must comply with that stricter requirement. Check with your mairie for any local restrictions.