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The days of arriving late to an Airbnb in Italy and leaving the key box open will soon be over after Italy banned self-check-in under a new law said to be necessary to combat potential terrorism.
Italy will deploy law enforcement officers to remove key boxes and key pads at self-check-in facilities, according to the Interior Ministry, in a move welcomed by people amid concerns that popular travel destinations are at risk of being overwhelmed by tourists. cabinet.
The ban marks a tightening of Italian laws. All tenants are required to register with their local police station regardless of how long they have lived there, but in recent years property managers have been forwarding copies or mobile phone photos to messaging services to ensure compliance.
Now they have to do their own physical examination.
According to the circular announcing the ban, the new regulations are needed to “implement stringent measures to prevent risks to public order and safety in relation to the possible accommodation of dangerous persons or persons associated with criminal or terrorist organizations.”
It comes as the city of Rome braces for an onslaught of tourists for the Vatican Jubilee in 2025 and as Italy hosts the 2026 Winter Olympics in Cortina, both events for which Airbnb and other short-term rentals are already booked.
‘Good news for everyone’
The decision to enact the ban was taken “in view of the growing phenomenon of short-term rentals across the country and the Jubilee celebrations in conjunction with the numerous political, cultural and religious events scheduled in the country. “According to estimates, between 30 and 35 million tourists are expected to visit Italy,” he said.
The local government welcomed the move, which follows a ban on key boxes already announced by the Tuscany city of Florence in mid-November.
Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri applauded the ban, telling CNN that locks and key boxes “destroy our streets” and declared it was “good news for everyone.”
“We are grateful for this decision, which we have long hoped would clarify and ensure better protection against abuse, more effective access controls, and an initial brake on unfair competition,” he said in a statement to CNN.
Italian Tourism Minister Daniela Santanché said the ban was “an essential step to prevent risks and ensure a peaceful and positive tourist experience.”
Airbnb said in a statement to CNN that it takes security seriously and supports official efforts to crack down on illegal lockboxes in public places. However, it defended self-check-in as “a convenient option that allows both hosts and guests to manage their arrival in a flexible way.”
“While we are committed to promoting responsible hosting and ensuring our platform continues to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, we need solutions that help address local safety concerns while also meeting the needs of hosts and hostesses. We look forward to working with the Italian government to find out. guest community,” Airbnb said in a statement.
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