Aachen

For individuals hosting homes in Aachen, this article provides targeted information on applicable local regulations. As emphasized in the OH-Stay.com article "Hosting in Germany," it is the responsibility of each host to independently verify and comply with all relevant obligations. This document serves only as an introductory reference and is not exhaustive, nor does it replace professional legal or tax advice. Hosts are strongly encouraged to stay up to date with current laws and procedures. In cases of uncertainty or complexity, contacting the City of Aachen directly or consulting a local professional (such as a lawyer or tax advisor) is recommended.

Regulations for Rentals

Aachen has specific rules for short-term rentals, aimed at protecting and preserving residential housing. You can review the city’s official guidelines, the Housing Protection Statute (Satzung zum Schutz und Erhalt von Wohnraum), as well as the framework established under the NRW state-wide Housing Strengthening Act.

Permit Requirements

Since August 1, 2019, the use of residential property for purposes other than permanent housing — including leaving units vacant — requires a permit in Aachen. The City provides a detailed FAQ for more information.

Registration Obligations

As of July 1, 2022, hosts must display a registration number (Wohnraum-Identitätsnummer) online when renting out residential space on a short-term basis, regardless of the number of days per year. Both tenants and owners are subject to this requirement. Applications for a housing identity number can be submitted via the NRW Construction Portal online service.

Notification Obligations

Hosts must report each occupancy no later than the 10th day after the rental begins. Notifications are submitted through the same online service used to obtain the housing identity number. Commercial operators are not required to maintain an occupancy calendar.

Obligations to Display Company Details

Instead of a registration number, hosts may publish company details (imprint) if they rent out:

Non-residential space
Residential space long-term (minimum of three months)
Residential space short-term, where the host is not the tenant or owner

This option generally applies to business operators such as management companies, B&Bs, serviced apartments, and hotels.

Entering Your Registration Number or Imprint on OH-Stay.com

To comply with these requirements, follow these steps in your OH-Stay.com host account:

Log into your OH-Stay.com Host Account.
Navigate to “Manage Listings” and select the listing that requires a registration number.
Go to “Policies and Rules” → “Laws and Regulations” and enter your registration number under “Regulations.”
Repeat the process for each additional listing.