Anyone who wants to rent out their apartment in the Black Forest via Airbnb must comply with legal requirements. In this article, you will find out everything about permits, deadlines and regulations for short-term rentals in the Black Forest region.

Renting out Airbnb in the Black Forest: Approval, Rules & Tips 2025

Anyone who wants to rent out their apartment in the Black Forest via Airbnb must comply with legal requirements. In this article, you will find out everything about permits, deadlines and regulations for short-term rentals in the Black Forest region.

1. Why does Airbnb in the Black Forest require approval?

The Black Forest attracts millions of tourists every year. The region is therefore particularly attractive for short-term rental of holiday apartments. In order to protect the housing market and ensure sustainable development of tourism, certain regulations must be met.

In short: Anyone who wants to regularly rent out an entire apartment to tourists in the Black Forest requires a permit in many cases.

2. When do you need a permit for Airbnb in the Black Forest?

The following is subject to approval:

•Renting out an entire apartment (not just individual rooms)

•If you rent out more than a total of 8 weeks (56 days) per calendar year

•If you don't use the apartment yourself as your main residence

The following is not subject to approval:

•The occasional rental of individual rooms in your main apartment

•Short-term rentals of up to 8 weeks per year

•In some cases: interim letting in case of temporary absence

Even when used without permission, a notification to the respective city administration is required.

3. How do you get approval?

An application must be submitted to the responsible municipal administration. You'll need:

•Proof of ownership or rental agreement

•Proof of dedication to construction law (e.g. as residential or commercial)

•Approval from the owners' association (if necessary)

•Reason why you want to rent out the apartment for tourists

Tip: Arbio helps you with the application, formulation and communication with the authorities so that you can do everything in a legally secure manner.

4. What happens without approval?

•Fines of up to 500,000 euros

•Additional tax claims

•Airbnb listing suspension

•Checks by neighbors or the competent housing protection authority

5. How does registration work?

In addition to the permit, your property must be registered on the online portal of the respective city administration. You will receive a registration number, which must be published in every ad.

6. What use is permitted under building law?

•Living space: Tourist use only with permission

•Accommodation: Permitted, but subject to commercial obligations (with further conditions)

•Mixed forms: Must be checked by the building authority on a case-by-case basis

The conversion of living space requires a separate building application and can involve effort.

7. Tips for legal Airbnb rentals in the Black Forest

•Request a registration number before you post your ad online

•Limit rental to a maximum of 8 weeks if you want to remain permit-free

•Tax income (even as a small business owner)

•Maintain reviews and automate communication

•Use partners like Arbio to optimize administration and guest handling

Conclusion

Renting out via Airbnb in the Black Forest can be very worthwhile, but only with legal protection. Anyone who disregards the regulations risks heavy fines. However, with a structured approach and professional support, Airbnb is becoming an attractive business model in the Black Forest.

This article does not replace legal advice, but provides a well-founded introduction to the legal basis for Airbnb landlords in the Black Forest. Let us advise you!