The Mayor of Florence, Sara Funaro, has announced a groundbreaking initiative to address the challenges posed by mass tourism in the city. Starting this year, property owners who remove their homes from the short-term rental market will be eligible for a refund on their IMU (Italy’s property tax). This measure, targeting the UNESCO-listed historic center of Florence, is the latest in a series of policies aimed at curbing the negative effects of overtourism.
The initiative applies exclusively to properties within the UNESCO World Heritage site boundaries, which largely align with Florence’s historic center. Homeowners who transition their properties from short-term tourist rentals to long-term residential leases will be entitled to claim a full refund of their IMU for 2024. To qualify, owners must demonstrate that they have ceased tourist rental operations in favor of long-term leases for city residents.
How to Apply
Eligible homeowners can submit their applications for the 2024 IMU refund via the City of Florence’s certified email (protocollo@pec.comune.fi.it) by December 30, 2024. The required form and supporting documentation are already available for download on the municipal website.
This policy is part of a broader strategy by Mayor Funaro, elected in June, to preserve the social fabric of Florence’s historic center and mitigate the housing crisis exacerbated by skyrocketing rents and cost-of-living increases linked to the short-term rental boom.
A Crackdown on Short-Term Rentals and Keyboxes
In addition to the tax refund initiative, Funaro recently announced a ban on the installation of keyboxes—widely used by short-term rental hosts to facilitate tourist check-ins—starting in 2025. Keyboxes, once a practical solution, have become a symbol of Florence’s oversaturation with tourist accommodations.
Furthermore, Funaro’s administration has proposed restrictions on opening new stores and restaurants in 40 streets within the historic center. These measures aim to protect traditional businesses and maintain the city’s unique cultural identity amid growing commercial homogenization.
Florence’s aggressive stance on overtourism reflects a growing recognition of its impact on local communities. With UNESCO heritage designation comes a dual responsibility: to showcase the city’s cultural treasures while preserving its livability for residents. Mayor Funaro’s policies are a bold attempt to strike this balance, reclaiming the city for its people.
For more information, visit the City of Florence’s official website.