Short-term let licence

Temporary exemptions - Golf Open 2027

The Open Championship returns to St Andrews in July 2027, bringing a significant number of visitors to the area. To support accommodation demand, we are offering Short-Term Let (STL) Temporary Exemptions.

If you hold a valid full STL licence, a temporary exemption is not required.

What the temporary exemption allows

The temporary exemption lets you use a property as a short-term let for a specific time-limited period during the Golf Open 2027, without a full licence:

  • you can operate for up to 6 continuous weeks
  • applications will be accepted Fife-wide
  • you must not operate until the exemption is granted

How to apply

Applications will be accepted between 15 June and 4 October 2026.

Those received out with these dates will not be accepted.

  • you must apply online only
  • you must send all required certificates with your application
  • you must pay the fee when you apply

As with a full STL licence, it's subject to certain conditions:

Fees

  • £205 for 1 to 10 occupants
  • £210 for 11 or more occupants

When you need a full licence

You must apply for a full licence if you want to operate for more than 6 weeks in a 12-month period.

How decisions are made

Temporary exemption applications can take up to 6 months to process. Full licence applications can take up to 9 months.