ANEW law to crack down on problems caused by short-term lets is due to come into force in March.

The licensing scheme will regulate the sector which has led to residents in many parts of the country making complaints about flats used for overnight or weekend stays.

It has also been noted to have had an impact on the supply of housing as some owners choose to let out properties by the night or on a weekly basis rather than

as a permanent home through a tenancy.

The Scottish Government has ­issued a final call for views in a consultation on the regulation of short-term lets.

The proposals will give more powers to councils to manage housing pressures in certain areas and to deal with complaints like noise or nuisance.

Areas like Glasgow city centre, Anderston and Yorkhill are considered to have a high number of short-term lets and were part of a study with other areas, including Edinburgh’s New Town and Old Town, the East Neuk of Fife and Fort William and the Isle of Skye.

The Scottish Government said it is speaking to councils, police and fire officials as well as Airbnb hosts and letting agents to ensure any legislation is “effective and efficient.”

The legislation would focus on three control areas to regulate short term lets.

Licensing would be used to ensure short-term lets are safe and address issues faced by neighbours.

Control areas would be able to be established to help manage

high concentrations of secondary letting.

They would be introduced where too many short-term lets are thought to affect the availability of residential housing and the character of a neighbourhood. It could also restrict or prevent short-term lets in places or types of building where it is considered not appropriate.

Taxation would be used to make sure short-term lets make an ­appropriate contribution to ­local ­communities and support local ­services.

Housing Minister Kevin Stewart said: “Short-term lets can offer people a flexible and affordable accommodation option, and they have contributed positively to Scotland’s tourism industry and local economies across the country.

“However, we know that in certain areas, particularly tourist hot spots, high numbers of these arrangements can cause problems for neighbours and make it harder for people to find homes to live in.

“The views and evidence from our previous consultation and research showed broad consensus for some form of regulation. Our proposals will allow local authorities and communities facing the most severe pressures to take action to manage those more effectively from next year.

“I believe our proposals for a ­licensing scheme and short-term let control areas are evidence-

based and right for Scottish ­circumstances.

“We will be engaging with stakeholders on our detailed proposals over the next four weeks. I am confident that our proposals will allow local authorities to ensure a safe, quality experience for visitors, whilst protecting the interests of ­local communities.”

Glasgow City Council introduced rules in the city following concerns and has called on the Scottish ­Government to give greater powers to allow further regulation and ­enforcement.

Since 2017, council regulations ban short-term lets in a close with a communal entrance if the entire flat is rented out.

An individual room can still be let out if the owner remains living in the property.