Tourists could be charged extra for holidaying in Scotland, but the move has met with a mixed response in the North-east.
Legislation to give local authorities the power to apply a visitor levy, or "tourist tax" has been published.
If passed by MSPs, it will give councils the ability to add a tax to overnight accommodation, based on a percentage of the total costs.
Edinburgh said its proposals included a £2-per-night charge added to the price of any room for the first week of a stay.
Aberdeen City Council co-leader Christian Allard believes there is a “strong case” for councils being given the option of introducing a visitor levy.
It is an idea that has been debated in Aberdeen for almost a decade.
Option
Mr Allard told the Press & Journal: “If we are going to invest in our city, and make Aberdeen a more attractive place to visit, then that needs to be funded from somewhere. A visitor levy would provide an option to do that.”
But the proposal has been criticised by the incoming leader of Aberdeenshire Council.
Gillian Owen said: “Once again we’re seeing a one-size-fit-all approach from the Scottish Government which doesn’t fit with how hospitality and tourism works in the North-east.
“My thoughts are with struggling operators who scraped their way through the Covid pandemic only to be told another tax is on the horizon.”
The BBC says councils will have to consult with local communities, businesses and tourism organisations before going ahead with the charge - and it is expected it could be introduced by 2026.
Consult
Local authorities would also have to consult on where the proceeds of the levy would be spent before the tax is introduced officially.
The Scottish Government said that all funds raised must be reinvested into the local community on facilities and services used by visitors, benefiting the local area and economy and enhancing the tourist experience.