Long-awaited code aims to tackle short-term letting issues at Royal William Yard

A code of conduct aimed at improving standards for short-term holiday lets at Plymouth's Royal William Yard has officially come into force.

The new rules, covering the Brewhouse, Clarence and Mills Bakery buildings, follow almost a year of negotiations between the Royal William Yard Residents Association (RWYRA), developers Urban Splash, short-term letting operators and managing agents.

The code, which took effect on June 1, introduces a range of measures designed to reduce disruption for residents and ensure visitors respect the unique residential environment of the historic waterfront development. Operators have been given a three-month grace period to achieve full compliance.

Among the requirements are mandatory in-person guest check-ins, a 24-hour local emergency contact, strict quiet hours between 11pm and 8am, and a ban on parties, events and pets. Access codes for residential buildings must not be shared with guests, while key safes are prohibited.

Operators must also ensure guests comply with fire safety requirements, parking rules and waste disposal arrangements.

Mark Ingrouille, on behalf of the RWYRA committee, said the agreement had been developed to "minimise bad practices and maintain high community standards".

Residents are being encouraged to report any breaches directly to the managing agents.