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Days of delay on Airbnb in Italy and opening the box of keys to afford it will soon end after the country issued a ban on self-registration under a new law it says is needed to combat potential terrorism.
In a move welcomed by those who fear the popular tourist destination is in danger of being overwhelmed by tourists, enforcement officers are to be deployed to ensure the removal of key boxes and key pads at self-catering properties. according to the Italian interior ministry.
The ban is a tightening of Italian law. All tenants, regardless of length of stay, must be registered with local police stations, but in recent years property managers have been forwarding photocopies or mobile phone pictures to a messaging service to comply.
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Now they will have to do physical checks in person.
The new regulation is necessary to “enforce strict measures aimed at preventing risks to public order and safety related to the possible accommodation of dangerous people or people associated with criminal or terrorist organizations,” according to the circular announcing the ban.
It comes as the city of Rome prepares for an influx of tourists for the Vatican’s Holy Jubilee in 2025 and Italy hosts the 2026 Cortina Winter Olympics, both events during which Airbnbs and other short-term rentals are already booked.
“Good news for everyone”
The decision to introduce the ban was made “in light of the strengthening of the phenomenon of short-term rentals throughout the country, related to the numerous political, cultural and religious events planned in the country, also in view of the jubilee celebrations, which, according to estimates, will bring 30-35 million tourists in Italy,” the circular said.
Local authorities have already welcomed the move, which follows a ban on key boxes issued by the Tuscan city of Florence in mid-November.
Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri told CNN he applauded the ban, saying padlocks and key boxes “disfigure our streets” and called it “good news for everyone.”
“I express my gratitude for a decision I have hoped for for some time, which clarifies and ensures better prevention of abuse, more effective access control and an initial stop to unfair competition,” he said in a statement to CNN
Italian Tourism Minister Daniela Santanche called the ban “an essential step to prevent risks and ensure a peaceful and positive tourist experience”.
In a statement to CNN, Airbnb said it takes security seriously and supports official efforts to crack down on illegal key boxes in public places. But he defended self-check-ins as “a convenient option for both hosts and guests to manage arrivals in a flexible way”.
“While we remain committed to promoting responsible hosting and ensuring that our platform continues to offer safe and enjoyable experiences for all, we look forward to working with the Italian government on solutions that help address local safety concerns while meet the needs of our hosts and guest community,” Airbnb said in a statement.
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