RU
DE
FR
ES
PT
AR
From 14 January 2025, Málaga will impose a 3-year moratorium on registering new tourist apartments in 43 city districts. The measure aims to combat overcrowding and preserve residential neighbourhoods.
The decision comes amid mass protests against excessive tourism in Europe, especially in popular Spanish destinations such as Barcelona and the Canary Islands. The restrictions will affect neighbourhoods where more than 8% of residential buildings are occupied for short-term rentals, helping to alleviate the housing crisis and protect local communities.
Malaga is not the only city that has introduced similar measures. Similar restrictions have recently appeared in Alicante, Madrid, and Seville. Madrid has banned tourist apartments in the historic centre, while Seville has set a limit of no more than 10% of short-term rentals per district. Barcelona intends to close all 10,000 licensed tourist apartments by 2028.
The restrictions will affect travellers and long-term tenants. Travellers will face higher accommodation prices and fewer options, requiring bookings. Long-term renters, including expats, may face new challenges as landlords will refocus on the local rental market.
Despite the restrictions, tourists can still book properties registered earlier. There are 13,000 officially registered tourist apartments in Málaga. However, properties registered after 22 February 2024 that do not have a separate entrance or self-contained facilities could lose their licenses.
Although the initial ban is for 3 years, Malaga authorities do not rule out extending it. The City Council is committed to preserving the region's historical heritage while supporting the tourism industry.
Comments