Is it legal to rent out a room without a permit in central Paris?

In central Paris, renting out a room, especially on a short-term basis, generally requires adherence to specific regulations and often a permit. The need for a permit primarily depends on whether the rental is short-term (less than a year, typically for tourists) or long-term. For short-term rentals, Parisian authorities have implemented stringent rules to control the number of properties available for such purposes, aiming to prevent a shortage of long-term rental properties. Homeowners must register with the town hall, and the property must comply with zoning regulations. Failing to adhere to these rules can result in significant fines. For long-term rentals, the regulations are less strict, but compliance with general housing standards and safety regulations is mandatory.

Trivia: Paris is known for its strict housing regulations, partly due to its historical buildings and the city’s desire to preserve its aesthetic and cultural heritage. Interestingly, the city has even implemented a color chart dictating the hues allowed for building facades.