The new city regulation was approved late last night by the city council after a marathon session, with 107 amendments put to the vote.
A minimum of 28 square metres is required per apartment, along with a five-year authorization for each housing unit applicable to both the owner and the property (meaning it becomes void in the event of a sale). A task force will be set up to carry out inspections and fines ranging from 1,000 to 10,000 euro will be enforced on those found to be operating outside of the rules.
The resolution also confirms a freeze on new short-term rental authorizations in the UNESCO area of Florence and the measure will enter into effect 15 days after being published in the official register.
The ban on dividing up homes smaller than 50 square metres remains in effect in the UNESCO area. Minimum room sizes are also stated in the bylaw: nine square metres for a single room, 14 for a double. Kitchens must measure no less than nine square metres.
The rules will apply to anyone who begins a rental business from 2025 onwards. Those who started before January 1, 2025 will have three years to apply for authorization and, if necessary, bring their properties up to code.
“This regulation is an important step towards a more liveable and fairer city, one centred on sustainable and quality tourism, and one that is designed with citizens in mind,” commented Sara Funaro, Mayor of Florence.
