Vienna Cracks Down on Illegal Short-Term Rentals: Two Unauthorized Hotels Discovered

Vienna has implemented strict regulations on short-term rentals, and recent inspections by the building police have revealed two unauthorized hotel operations. These findings are part of a broader initiative to address illegal rentals, including those offered by residents of municipal housing through platforms like Airbnb.

As of July 1, 2024, the city has enforced tighter rules governing the short-term rental of residential properties. Renting is prohibited if the total number of rental days exceeds 90 days per year, unless a special permit is obtained. The enforcement of these regulations is overseen by a newly established department within the building police (MA 37).

According to the office of the city's housing councilor, routine inspections occur several times a week to investigate reports and suspicions of illegal rentals. In addition to these regular checks, targeted operations have been conducted in specific neighborhoods, utilizing online research to identify potential violations. During a recent operation on Wiedner Gürtel, two illegal hotel establishments were found, where large-scale rentals were being conducted. Similar violations were also discovered in a high-rise building in Favoriten.

By the end of March 2025, the department had received a total of 887 reports of illegal rentals, leading to 163 formal charges. In cases of severe infractions or repeated violations, fines can reach up to EUR50,000 per property. However, some landlords have chosen to comply with the legal framework, with 808 applications for short-term rental permits submitted since the new regulations took effect.

Officials express satisfaction with the outcomes of the new regulations, noting that they have successfully mobilized previously vacant units. The intention behind these regulations is to preserve the original concept of short-term rentals, which allows private individuals to rent out their homes when traveling, while also implementing the 90-day rental limit.

In municipal housing, there are no leniencies regarding rental practices. Subletting such properties has always been strictly forbidden, and the city has particularly targeted listings on platforms like Airbnb. In 2020, the city took legal action against Airbnb, obtaining a ruling in 2022 that prohibits the advertisement of municipal apartments on the site. This ruling also mandates Airbnb to disclose revenues generated from these illegal rentals. As a result, investigations have been initiated to identify offending landlords, with reports indicating that private investigators have been employed. From 2012 to 2022, around 250 individuals reportedly sublet their municipal apartments illegally, with approximately 100 cases involving significant breaches of the allowed rental duration.

Consequences for these violations have been severe, including termination of leases and permanent bans from municipal housing. In response to these actions, 70 individuals have already surrendered their municipal residences. Additionally, the housing authority plans to reclaim profits earned from these unauthorized rentals. Individuals who rented their homes for only a few days have received warnings rather than harsher penalties.