Several new laws will be affecting Scots this month with even more proposals underway, from a tourist tax to congestion charges.
From renters' protections to fireworks, the public will see a number of changes which are either starting this month or have recently passed legislation. Plus, a UK wide move will require those receiving state pension through Post Office accounts to make new arrangements by the end of the month.
Here's what you should know as November gets underway.
New fireworks law
The Scottish Government has cracked down on people supplying fireworks to anyone under the age of 18.
On top of the existing £5,000 fine, anyone caught supplying fireworks or other pyrotechnics to those under the legal age could also be hit with a six month jail sentence.
The move, which came into effect in October, aims to protect communities ahead of Bonfire Night this November 5.
Post Office card accounts closure
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will no longer pay state pension into claimants with Post Office card accounts (POca) from November 30.
The original November 2021 deadline was extended by one year for those receiving state pension, but not for those using POca for other benefits. That means people who receive of state pension will have to open a second payment account by the end of the month.
People unable to do so can apply to the Payment Exception Service, which allows claimants to receive DWP benefits via a pay point outlet with either a payment card, email or text with a voucher code.
If you do not update your DWP account details, you will be automatically moved onto the Payment Exception Service.
Edinburgh tourism tax
Edinburgh will be the first city in the UK to introduce a tax on overnight visitors once legislation is approved by the Scottish Parliament.
Tourists who visit will have to pay a £2 tourism tax when staying in the city.
The fee will be charged per person per night in an aim to generate revenue for the capital, which will be put toward improving services like waste, parks and green spaces.
Rent freeze
Under the newly passed Tenants Protection act, landlords will be unable to increase rents for a six month period.
This applies to in-tenancy rent increases with the cap set at 0% from September 6, 2022 until at least March 31, 2023, effectively freezing rents for most tenants.
The law will also prevent evictions as a result of the cost of living crisis during this period except in certain circumstances, such as crime or anti-social behaviour from tenants.
Damages for unlawful evictions have been increased to a maximum of 36 months' worth of rent.
Congestion charge
Edinburgh may introduce a congestion charge to encourage motorists to take public transport.
Commuters driving into the capital could be forced to pay a daily fee of up to £3 in an effort to encourage them to ditch cars. Legislation is still underway and is yet to be passed by the Scottish Government.
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond- Sign up to our daily newsletter here .
