South Africa’s City of Cape Town has ratified a new municipal planning by-law that makes it easier for homeowners to rent out their properties as Airbnbs, according to local media.
Short-term letting from a house or flat for a period not exceeding 30 consecutive days will now be allowed under the new provision.
The move seeks to grow the local economy and tourism sector.
Airbnb lauded the decision to amend the by-law.
“Airbnb believes the proposed rules are right for Cape Town and show the city’s progressive attitude,” Airbnb country manager for Sub-Saharan Africa Velma Corcoran was quoted as saying.
“…Airbnb and the City of Cape Town can help spread the benefits of tourism to those who haven’t previously been able to be part of the tourism economy, thereby helping more locals, their immediate communities and the city to reap the economic gains that tourism brings.”
She said over 2 million guests stayed in homes listed on Airbnb in South Africa since 2008, while its direct economic impact in the country was about R9 billion ($608 million) over the same period.
