Short-term let

‘Short-term let’ is the term used when an owner-occupier crofter lets all, or part, of their croft on a short lease to a tenant for a period not exceeding 10 years.

Who can apply?

An owner-occupier crofter

Things to consider:

• Consent for a short-term let does not change the status of the owner-occupier crofter.
• The tenant under a short-term let will not be treated as a tenant crofter and will not have the same legal rights as other types of tenants.
• A landlord of a vacant croft cannot use this application; they must apply to let the croft and/or grazings shares permanently.

Grazings shares:

• An owner-occupier crofter can include the associated grazings share(s) if they own the right to graze.
• If the grazings share(s) is already tenanted (classed as a separate 'deemed' croft), you must submit a separate application to sublet the share to the proposed tenant.

How do I apply?

You must submit a completed ‘short term let’ application form. Please read the guidance notes first. If your application doesn't match the register of crofts or is incomplete, we won't be able to process it. You can submit your application online or by post.

First, search for your croft and then find the correct form.

Apply now

You must also include:

• A detailed site map of the area being applied for is required only if you are letting part of the croft.
• Advert copy: You must advertise the application in a local newspaper for a 28-day public consultation period. The application must be sent to us before the advert appears. There is a sample advert in the application and guidance notes.
• Notifications: If grazings shares/rights are included, you are legally required to notify the owners of the common grazings in writing.

The process

• Initial checks: We'll check the application for completeness and ensure all advertising and notification requirements are met.
• Consultation: We allow 28 days for the public to submit comments or objections.
• Decision: We aim to make a decision on straightforward applications that meet all the parameters within 16 weeks.

What happens after a decision?

• If approved: We will prepare a standard lease for completion. This lease will require the tenant to fulfil the statutory duties relating to residency and land use.
• Termination: We may terminate a short-term let if a condition of the consent or the lease agreement is breached (other than rent).
• If refused: You have 42 days to appeal our decision to the Scottish Land Court. You can find more information about this on our appeals page. 

Further information

Short-term letting law, policy and procedure

Delegated decision making and escalating cases – short-term let