Up to 50 thousand PLN penalty for renting an apartment. New regulations come into force

The apartment rental market is entering a new stage. Short-term rental registration will become mandatory from May 20, 2026. Failure to enter the appropriate register may result in very high financial penalties.

The changes are intended to bring order to a dynamically developing market segment, which in recent years has become a source of numerous conflicts between residents and owners of premises intended for short-term rental.

Short-term rental registration – obligatory from May 2026

The new regulations introduce the need to register short-term rental activities. From May 20, 2026, every owner offering this type of services will have to meet formal requirements.

Failure to register will be treated as a violation of the regulations and may result in the imposition of an administrative fine of up to PLN 50,000. zloty.

Short-term rental registration – conflicts in buildings

The introduction of new regulations is a response to the growing tensions in residential buildings. Residents increasingly complain about noise, damage to common areas and high turnover of tenants, which is similar to the functioning of a hotel.

In response to these problems, housing communities began to adopt resolutions limiting or completely banning short-term rentals. Some developers introduce such restrictions already at the stage of selling apartments.

Short-term rental and property rights

Experts point out that some of such activities may raise legal doubts. Restrictions imposed on property owners may be considered unlawful if they interfere with the use of private property.

According to the applicable rules, housing associations can regulate the use of common parts of the building, but they should not impose on owners how to use their apartments.

Short-term rental registration – effects on the market

The changes are intended to organize the market, but at the same time they may introduce additional barriers for apartment owners and rental companies. The industry signals that new obligations may make it difficult to conduct business.

At the same time, experts emphasize that short-term rental remains an important element of the tourism market. Instead of total restrictions, they point to the need to increase the responsibility of owners, especially in terms of checking tenants and possible damages.