The UK Government has launched an important consultation on the potential introduction of a visitor levy in England — sometimes referred to as a tourism tax or holiday tax.
While no final decisions have been made, the outcome of this consultation could give certain local authorities the power to introduce a levy on overnight stays.
For tourism businesses across Devon, this is something that deserves close attention.
What Is Being Proposed?
The Government is consulting on whether Mayoral Strategic Authorities should be granted powers to introduce a local visitor levy on overnight accommodation within their areas.
If approved, this would allow eligible authorities to charge guests an additional fee per night when staying in hotels, holiday parks, lodges, B&Bs, short-term lets and other forms of paid accommodation.
At this stage:
-
No final decisions have been made
-
It is not yet confirmed whether the proposals will proceed
-
Any changes are unlikely to take effect before 2029
However, the consultation process is now open — and this is where your voice matters.
What Could This Mean for Devon?
Devon does not currently have an elected Mayor. However, Devon County Council and Torbay Council now hold Combined County Authority (CCA) status.
Under the proposals outlined in the consultation, CCAs may be granted the same levy-raising powers as Mayoral Authorities.
If that happens, it could mean:
-
A visitor levy could be introduced across Devon County Council and Torbay Council areas
-
Every overnight stay could be subject to an additional charge from 2029 onwards
-
Plymouth, which is not currently part of the CCA, would not automatically be included
While this is still speculative, it represents a potentially significant change for accommodation providers and the wider tourism sector across the county.
Why This Matters to Tourism Businesses
Whether you operate a holiday lodge, cottage, hotel, campsite, B&B or short-term rental, a visitor levy could:
-
Impact booking decisions
-
Affect pricing strategies
-
Influence competitiveness against other regions
-
Add administrative processes for businesses
There are arguments both for and against such levies. Some areas suggest funds could support tourism infrastructure and destination marketing. Others raise concerns about pricing sensitivity and additional burdens on businesses.
Regardless of your position, the key point is this:
If you do not respond, your voice is not counted.
ACT NOW – Consultation Now Open
The Government’s formal consultation is live, and we strongly encourage all tourism-related businesses to submit an individual response.
Consultation deadline:
🗓 18 February 2026 at 23:59
How to respond:
You can submit your response in either of the following ways:
Online:
Visitor levy in England – GOV.UK
👉 https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/overnight-visitor-levy-in-england
By email:
📧 OVLconsultation@communities.gov.uk
Visit Devon have provided a detailed guide in responding to the proposed Visitor Levy in England.
The consultation outlines the scope of the proposals and seeks views from businesses, local authorities and the public.
This Is Your Opportunity to Be Heard
This is not yet policy. It is a proposal.
If introduced, it could reshape how overnight stays are priced and managed across Devon from 2029 onwards.
Now is the time for tourism businesses to engage, provide feedback, and ensure that decision-makers understand the realities of operating within our sector.
Whether you support the concept, oppose it, or believe it needs careful refinement — your input matters.