‹ Malaysia

Penang short-term rental rules (2026)

Malaysia
Restricted
Rules last checked  ·  Region: International

Market overview

RESTRICTEDStays under 30 days

Allowed, with material limits.

Penang requires a council licence for every short-term rental since 1 August 2026.

Why do places restrict rentals?

Property eligibility: Not assessed A market overview can't tell whether a specific home qualifies (zoning, permits, HOA).

Licence
Required
Primary residence
Not required
Night cap
None

Work for Penang? Claim this page to confirm or correct the rules.

NOT YET RESEARCHEDStays of 30+ nights

Longer stays (30+ days)

Not yet researched for this place.

Ask us to research longer stays here →

Browse all 7 STR regulations in Malaysia →

The full Penang rules

16 rules on record for Penang. Every rule traced to its official source. How we research

Free account includes full rules for one place, with change alerts. Full report $39 · See a sample. For a lender or insurer: rules summary for one address, $29, free with the report. Already have an account? Sign in.

Source: ulesen.mbpp.gov.my (official), checked 25 Oct 2026. Official links, citations and how to apply come with a paid plan.

Quick answers

Is Airbnb legal in Penang?

Yes, with material limits. Penang requires a council licence for every short-term rental since 1 August 2026.

Do you need a permit for a short-term rental in Penang?

Yes, a licence or registration is required.

Is there a limit on rental nights in Penang?

No night cap is on record.

When were the Penang rules last checked?

We last checked the short-term rental rules for Penang on 25 Oct 2026.

Search 5,120+ places

LawfulStay tracks short-term rental rules for 5,120+ places, with every rule traced to its official source.

Search the database →