Overtourism in Italy: What is a self check-in keybox, and why is Florence banning it?

Florence, one of Italy’s most visited cities, has ordered the removal of self check-in keyboxes from holiday rental properties by February 25 as part of efforts to curb over-tourism. The move, announced by the local government, aims to regulate the booming short-term rental market and address growing concerns from residents and business owners. Property owners who fail to comply face fines of up to €400.
Self check-in keyboxes, widely used by short-term rental properties platforms, allow visitors to access rental properties without meeting the host in person. While these keyboxes provide convenience for both guests and owners, critics argue that they contribute to security risks and aesthetic pollution in Florence’s historic cityscape.
If reports are to go by, this new rule will be implemented from next week. Under this new rule, authorities will inspect rental properties to ensure compliance, and remove keyboxes where necessary. The city council’s decision comes after growing local discontent over the impact of mass tourism on housing availability and the quality of life for residents.
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Florence is not alone in its battle against the unchecked rise of short-term rentals. Historic cities like Rome and Venice have also implemented measures to regulate holiday rentals, as local communities protest against rising rent prices and a shrinking supply of long-term housing, which is a big headache for the locals.
Also, the government has already introduced a rule requiring visual guest identification during check-ins, making self check-in methods less viable across Italy.
If reports are to go by, by reducing the number of short-term rentals, the city will be able to make more room for the local residents. Reports state that Florence currently has 15,000 apartments available for holiday lets. Activists aim to bring this number down to 7,000–8,000.
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Florence is, without a doubt, one of the world’s most treasured cultural destinations, attracting millions of visitors each year. It is refreshing to see that the city’s new regulations now signal a shift toward preserving local life and heritage, rather than catering exclusively to tourism.