Introduction: Letting with Confidence in a Growing Market

The beautiful blend of countryside charm, industrial heritage, and market town appeal makes East Shropshire and Stafford a popular choice for UK getaways. From Bridgnorth and Telford to Eccleshall and Stafford town, demand for high-quality short-term accommodation is rising fast.

But behind every successful holiday let is a legally compliant host. With the government introducing new frameworks and local councils reviewing policy, it’s crucial to know the rules—whether you’re letting a converted stable, a townhouse, or a countryside lodge.

In this guide, we’ll break down what you need to know to legally host in East Shropshire and Stafford. Plus, we’ve included practical tips from Suzanne, your expert local partner at Pass the Keys East Shropshire & Stafford.

1. Planning Permission & Changing Use

Do I need planning permission to let a property short-term?

Currently, most areas of East Shropshire and Stafford do not require planning permission for short-term letting if the use is casual or secondary to residential use. However, that may change soon.

By 2026, the government will introduce a new C5 use class for short-term lets. When this happens:

• Your local authority (either Shropshire Council or Stafford Borough Council) may require planning permission for letting your home commercially

• Rural and conservation villages could be prioritised for stricter regulation

Suzanne advises:

“We’re helping hosts get ahead of the planning curve—especially in heritage towns like Ironbridge or listed areas in Stafford. If your let is regular or full-time, it’s worth checking the planning status now.”

 

2. Registration & Licensing

Do I need a licence for my holiday let?

As of now, there’s no formal licensing scheme in place across East Shropshire or Stafford. But the UK government has confirmed that a national short-let register is on the way.

This register will:

• Be mandatory for all short-term lets

• Allow local councils to roll out licensing schemes in high-density areas

• Likely require hosts to submit safety documentation, insurance, and property details

While the register is still being finalised, it’s important to:

• Keep up-to-date safety records

• Be prepared for a future licensing application

Suzanne shares:

“We make sure every property we manage is prepared for these changes—so when registration becomes mandatory, our hosts will be ahead of the game.”

 

3. Fire Safety, Gas & Electrical Regulations

What safety measures are legally required?

Whether you're letting a converted coach house in Much Wenlock or a modern apartment in Stafford, fire and safety compliance is essential. Hosts must follow the Fire Safety Order 2005, including its 2023 updates for short-term rentals.

You must have:

• A written Fire Risk Assessment for the property

• Interlinked smoke and heat alarms throughout

• Carbon monoxide detectors near fuel-burning appliances

• Fire extinguishers and blankets in key locations

• Clear evacuation instructions for guests

You also need:

• A valid Gas Safety Certificate (renewed annually)

• An EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) every 5 years

• PAT testing for portable electrical appliances

Suzanne notes:

“We handle all of this for our hosts—from coordinating certified assessments to ensuring the home meets every legal standard. It’s peace of mind for owners and guests.”

4. Responsible Guest Capacity & Behaviour

Are there restrictions on guests or bookings?

There’s no official cap on the number of guests in Shropshire or Stafford, but local councils may investigate if:

• You exceed sleeping capacity based on room size and fire safety

• Your property is used for loud parties or large gatherings

• Neighbours report disruption

To stay compliant:

• Stick to your safety-approved guest limit

• Clearly communicate house rules (especially noise, parking, and outdoor use)

• Avoid frequent bookings for large groups unless your property is suitable

Properties in quiet residential streets or rural hamlets may be especially sensitive to guest activity. Pass the Keys helps enforce respectful guest behaviour using smart technology and 24/7 support.

5. Business Rates or Council Tax?

How is my short-let taxed?

It depends on how often you let your property:

• If it’s available for at least 140 nights per year and actually let for at least 70 nights, it must be registered for business rates via the Valuation Office Agency (VOA)

• If you don’t meet that threshold, you’ll continue to pay council tax

Many hosts can claim Small Business Rate Relief, meaning you could owe little or no business rates—provided it’s your only commercial property.

Suzanne explains:

“Tax status is often overlooked until year-end. We help our hosts assess whether business rates apply and guide them through VOA registration.”

6. Listed Buildings & Rural Permissions

Can I let a heritage or countryside property?

Yes, but extra permissions may be required. East Shropshire and Stafford are home to:

• Grade II and II* listed cottages

• Conservation zones around Ironbridge, Newport, Eccleshall, and Stafford town centre

• Agricultural conversions in rural greenbelt areas

If your property is listed or in a protected area, you may need:

• Listed Building Consent for installing alarms, signage, or fire doors

• Approval for external features like lighting or fencing

• Planning guidance if you're converting an outbuilding or annex

Pass the Keys works with surveyors and planners to ensure all upgrades meet local conservation and building standards.

Conclusion: Let Locally. Let Legally. Let with Confidence.

East Shropshire and Stafford offer enormous potential for short-let income—but to succeed, you need to stay ahead of the rules. With the UK introducing national registration and councils gaining powers to limit or license short-term lets, compliance is becoming non-negotiable.

That’s where Pass the Keys East Shropshire & Stafford, led by Suzanne, comes in. We offer:

• Expert local advice tailored to your postcode

• Hands-on support with fire safety, planning, and tax registration

• Full-service guest management so you can earn income without the hassle

“We’re here to make sure your property is profitable, protected, and fully compliant—every step of the way.” – Suzanne, Pass the Keys East Shropshire & Stafford

Thinking about becoming a host in the area? Contact Suzanne today to find out how Pass the Keys can help you do it the right way. www.passthekeys.com