Málaga is set to enforce stricter rules on tourist accommodations by prohibiting the opening of new short-term rental properties in 43 of its neighborhoods. This comes as the number of tourist apartments in these areas now exceeds 8% of the total number of residential properties, a threshold the city council deems problematic for local residents.

Plan to Limit Tourist Rentals

Málaga’s Urban Planning Department, led by Councilwoman Carmen Casero, announced that the city will amend its General Urban Development Plan (PGOU) to enforce the new restrictions. The affected areas, referred to as ‘zone 1,’ include the Historic Center, El Ejido, La Merced, Lagunillas, and other well-known districts. In some neighborhoods, the number of tourist apartments has significantly surpassed the 8% mark.

This decision follows a decree from the Andalucian government earlier this year, granting municipalities the authority to limit or prohibit new tourist rentals. Casero confirmed that the new rule would officially take effect in November after it passes the City Council’s approval process later in October.

Additional Restrictions

The new regulations will also apply to ‘zone 2’ neighborhoods, where tourist apartments represent between 4.53% and 8% of the housing stock. Here, any new rentals must have separate entrances and services, making it difficult to establish them in residential buildings. In ‘zone 3,’ where tourist apartments make up less than 4.53%, the limit is also capped at 8%, with the same requirement for independent access.

Community Reactions

The move has sparked mixed reactions. Some feel the measure is too late and inadequate, calling it a temporary solution. They argue that Málaga is already overwhelmed with tourist accommodations, and more must be done to revoke existing licenses.

Meanwhile, Juan Cubo, president of the Andalucian Association of Professionals in Tourist Rentals, blames the government for decades of poor housing planning. Local residents, frustrated by rising rental prices and lack of affordable housing, have rallied against the influx of tourist apartments, with further protests planned for November.

Málaga’s battle to balance tourism with local housing needs continues to heat up as the new restrictions aim to preserve residential integrity while addressing growing community concerns.

Málaga’s new restrictions on tourist apartments aim to address the growing housing crisis, but opinions are divided on whether they go far enough. What do you think? Will this measure help balance tourism and housing for residents, or are more drastic steps needed? Share your thoughts in the comments below…

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