How to get ready for Upcoming Changes to Vacation Rental Laws in the Canary Islands?

What Hosts Need to Know to Stay Compliant

The Canary Islands has rolled out a new regulatory framework for Viviendas Vacacionales (VV), or vacation rental properties. These new rules aim to create a better balance between tourism and the housing needs of local residents.

Below is a summary of key changes and considerations:

1. Greater Role for Local Councils (Ayuntamientos)

Local councils will soon have the power to determine which areas are suitable for vacation rentals. The goal is to:

• Prevent over-tourism in high-density zones.
   
• Ensure enough long-term housing is available for residents.
   

Note: These zones have not yet been defined, so stay tuned for updates from your local council.

2. Limits on Vacation Rental Build ability

New construction will face stricter limits:

• A maximum of 10% of new buildings may be allocated to vacation rental use.
   
• It is still unclear whether this will require a specific permit or be linked to the minimum property age rule (10 years).

There will also be:

• Stricter restrictions on "Green Islands" – though it's not yet confirmed which islands will fall under this category.
   

3. Prior Authorisations Required

Before operating, all new vacation rental properties will need:

• Approval from the relevant Island Cabildo.
   
• To comply with upcoming inspection plans.
   

4. Protected Land Off-Limits

Properties located in the following areas will not be eligible for vacation rental use:

• National parks
   
• Nature reserves
   
• Areas of high environmental value

Note: Existing vacation rentals in these areas will not be affected by the new prohibition.

5. New Sustainability & Quality Standards

To raise the overall quality and environmental responsibility of vacation rentals, new requirements are expected, including:

• Minimum surface area of 35 m².
   
• Accessibility for people with reduced mobility (still being defined and may involve complex modifications).
   
• A final list of sustainability and quality standards is pending approval.
   

6. Rules for Existing Vacation Rentals

If you're already operating a Vacation Rental:

• You may continue doing so indefinitely
   
• However, your license cannot be transferred if the property is sold — it belongs to you, not the property.
  (Unlike in the Balearic Islands, where licenses are tied to the property itself.)

For property managers:

• You may continue managing existing VVs for 5 years, or up to 10 years if your operations comply with the upcoming regulations - This point is still under discussion and may change.
   

7. Requirements for New Vacation Rentals

Those looking to open a new Vacation rental should be aware of the following anticipated requirements:

• Minimum age of 10 years for the building (under discussion).
   
• Municipal authorisation from the local council (Ayuntamiento).
   
• Full compliance with all new safety, health, and environmental regulations.
   
• No location in protected or restricted areas.