Galway City Council has said it is aware of a planned demonstration concerning the regulation of short-term letting accommodation and acknowledges the right of individuals and groups to peacefully express their views.
The Council considers it important to clarify the role of local authorities in relation to short-term letting regulations and recent legislative changes.
The regulation of short-term letting accommodation is governed by national legislation and Government policy. Local authorities do not determine these policies but are required to administer and enforce the statutory framework as enacted by the Oireachtas.
Recent changes have introduced a national registration system for short-term lets. Accommodation providers must comply with the registration requirements and any relevant planning requirements. The registration system, managed by Fáilte Ireland, is intended to provide greater transparency and a clearer understanding of short-term letting activity across the country.
As the planning authority for the city, Galway City Council is required to investigate complaints and possible breaches of planning legislation, including the unauthorised use of properties for short-term letting.
Since 2025 Galway City Council has received 140 complaints relating to short-term letting activity; has opened 129 enforcement investigations; has issued 85 warning letters and 12 enforcement notices; referred seven cases for legal proceedings; and secured 41 compliance outcomes.
Enforcement investigations are conducted in accordance with established legal procedures and require the Council to gather sufficient evidence to support any enforcement action. As planning enforcement proceedings may ultimately result in criminal prosecution, the burden of proof rests with the local authority and any alleged offence must be proven beyond reasonable doubt.
