Local authorities were granted powers by the Scottish Government to raise taxes on second home owners by an unlimited amount earlier this year.
The tax premium was previously capped at 100pc, as in England, but councils north of the border now have unlimited powers.
SNP-run Midlothian raised the premium it charges second home owners to 500pc in April, potentially hitting property owners with bills of up to £27,863.
Council leaders hope the policy will deter holiday home ownership and free up properties for locals.
The suspension of Edinburgh’s 300pc premium on its 1,440 second home owners means that the levy has returned to a 100pc additional rate.
But, as suggested in the phrasing of its consultation, the council hopes to bring back the higher tax in a matter of months.
One second home owner told The Telegraph: “It’s on the second page of the virtual form.
“Once I read the bit saying they expect to introduce it regardless of what I say, I gave up. They’re basically saying they won’t listen to any of us.”
Edinburgh council was approached for comment.
