Tourist rentals are popular among foreign buyers. But one question keeps coming up:
“Can I rent out any property for tourism in Austria?”
The short answer: no.
Austria has strict rental rules, set out in local zoning plans (Widmung), municipal regulations, and regional provisions. These rules can vary significantly by province, town, and even by street.
In this guide, we clearly explain when tourist rentals are allowed, when they are prohibited, and how to avoid problems.
When can you rent out a property for tourism?
Tourist rentals in Austria are only allowed if the property’s zoning permits it. The main categories are:
1. Freizeitwohnsitz – leisure/resort residence
EenA Freizeitwohnsitz is the most flexible zoning type for tourist rentals.
✔ Tourist rentals allowed
✔ Use as a vacation home allowed
✔ No requirement for primary residence
But…
Freizeitwohnsitze are extremely rare, especially in popular areas like:
- Millstättersee
- Velden & Wörthersee
- Zell am See
- Ski Amadé
- Turracher Höhe
Municipalities rarely issue new permits.
2. Zweitwohnsitz – second home
A Zweitwohnsitz is a second residence, but:
✔ Sometimes limited rental possible
✖ Often strictly limited or fully prohibited in many municipalities
✖ Depends on local rules and quotas
Rules are especially strict in Carinthia, Tyrol, and Salzburg.
3. Gewerbliche Widmung – commercial zoning
This refers to a property with a commercial purpose.
✔ Tourist rentals are allowed
✔ Business permit required
✔ Often part of tourism projects
This type is common in ski regions such as:
- Turracher Höhe
- Katschberg
- Nassfeld
- Skiwelt Tirol
4. Apart-hotel / official rental concept
Professional projects with:
✔ Betriebsanlagengenehmigung (operating permit)
✔ Tourist rental as the main activity
✔ Usually includes rental service or management
Ideal for investors seeking worry-free returns.
When is tourist rental not allowed?
Hauptwohnsitz – primary residence zoning
In most municipalities:
✖ No short-term rental allowed
✖ No tourist rental via Airbnb/Booking
✔ Long-term rental (3+ years) may be possible
If you still want to rent out for tourism, a special permit is required—and these are rarely granted.
Important advice for foreign buyers
👉 Always check in advance whether tourist rentals are allowed.
Even within a single village, one street may permit it while the next street does not.
At The Estate agent austria, we check this for you!