Paris is entering a new phase of regulation in the short-term rental market, as stricter measures are implemented to limit the activity of platforms such as Airbnb.
Key Changes: According to the new regulation effective for 2026, primary residence owners in Paris may now rent out their properties for tourism for up to 90 nights per calendar year, down from the 120 nights that were previously the national standard.
This change is accompanied by intensified inspections regarding booking frequency. The objective is to prevent the systematic conversion of residential housing into “shadow hotels” without prohibiting occasional use by private individuals.
Le Meur Law and enhanced powers
The Le Meur Law, adopted in 2024, has played a decisive role in the authorities’ toughening stance, as it significantly empowered municipal intervention.
The new framework provides for:
Mandatory declaration and registration of all tourist rentals.
The creation of a national digital database.
The acquisition and display of a unique registration number on every listing.
The ability to identify properties operating as full-time tourist accommodations.
Sharing platforms are now required to cooperate closely with the authorities by providing booking data and removing non-compliant listings.
Heavier fines and intensified inspections
Violations of the new rules carry significant financial penalties. Owners who lack a registration permit, exceed the 90-day limit, or continue to operate properties for tourism without compliance may face fines reaching tens of thousands of euros.
In 2026, an increase in inspections and more frequent enforcement of sanctions is expected, as authorities utilize data provided by the platforms themselves to identify violators.
Pressure on housing
The intensification of these measures is directly linked to the growing pressure the city faces from mass tourism. Paris, one of the world’s most popular destinations, saw its visitor numbers soar particularly following the 2024 Olympic Games.
In areas such as Montmartre, the spread of short-term rentals has led to a decrease in available housing for permanent residents, rising rents, and the erosion of local character (“touristification”). Authorities believe that the unchecked growth of platforms like Airbnb exacerbates the problem, turning homes into investment products at the expense of social cohesion.
Shift to alternative accommodations
The shrinking supply is already leading some visitors toward other options, such as boutique hotels, aparthotels, and serviced apartments. These accommodations operate under a different legal status and are not subject to the same time constraints.
A European trend toward stricter rules
Paris is not an exception. Cities such as Amsterdam and Barcelona have already adopted similar measures, imposing overnight limits and strict registration systems. This trend reflects a broader European strategy to protect housing and control the impacts of overtourism.
A new balance for the city
Paris is attempting to redefine its relationship with tourism, seeking a more sustainable balance between visitors and residents. The new rules for 2026 are part of a comprehensive strategy aimed at protecting the housing market, maintaining quality of life, and controlling tourism growth.
Experts advise travelers to choose accommodations that clearly display a registration number to ensure the legality of their booking.
