When do I need an HMO licence in Scotland?

In Scotland, mandatory HMO licensing generally applies where three or more people from more than one household share accommodation — a lower threshold than England and Wales. Confirm the current rules with your local council.

How many councils in Scotland have HMO licensing?

Scotland has 32 councils in this directory, each responsible for HMO licensing in its area.

Where can I find HMO register data in Scotland?

This directory links to council registers where published. We show 9,242 licensed HMOs across Scotland from available register data.

HMO Licensing in Scotland

32 councils with HMO licensing information in Scotland.

32 councils

9,242 licensed HMOs

What are the HMO licensing requirements in Scotland?

Scotland has 32 local authorities responsible for HMO licensing. A licence is typically required where a property has three or more unrelated occupants sharing facilities.

9,242 licensed HMOs are recorded in published registers across Scotland.

Browse council pages below for fees, register data, and official application links in Scotland.

Source: Housing (Scotland) Act 2006 and Scottish council HMO licensing pages.

Unsure if your property needs a licence? Try the HMO licence checker.

Reviewed by AgentHMO Editorial Team · Data sourced from council registers

Which councils in Scotland have HMO licensing?

Councils with HMO licensing in Scotland

Aberdeen City	—	—	—	—
Aberdeenshire	—	—	—	—
Angus	—	—	—	—
Argyll and Bute	54	—	—	—
City of Edinburgh	6,302	—	—	—
Clackmannanshire	—	—	—	—
Dumfries and Galloway	—	—	—	—
Dundee City	—	—	—	—
East Ayrshire	—	—	—	—
East Dunbartonshire	—	—	—	—

Common questions about HMO licensing in Scotland

When do I need an HMO licence in Scotland?: In Scotland, mandatory HMO licensing generally applies where three or more people from more than one household share accommodation — a lower threshold than England and Wales. Confirm the current rules with your local council.
How many councils in Scotland have HMO licensing?: Scotland has 32 councils in this directory, each responsible for HMO licensing in its area.
Where can I find HMO register data in Scotland?: This directory links to council registers where published. We show 9,242 licensed HMOs across Scotland from available register data.

Summary

Councils32

Licensed HMOs9,242