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 are in the process of rolling 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. While many of the specifics are still being finalized, it's important for current and prospective hosts to understand what’s coming, and how to prepare for when the law comes into full effect.

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.

Final Thoughts: Stay Proactive

While many elements of the new regulation are still being fine-tuned, hosts and managers are encouraged to begin reviewing their properties and operations to anticipate the coming changes.

Stay in touch with local authorities and industry updates — being informed and prepared will help you continue to operate smoothly and legally.