The Canary Islands is introducing a new regulatory framework for Viviendas Vacacionales (VV), the local term for holiday rentals. The goal is to balance tourism with housing needs for residents. Many details are still being finalised, so check with your local council and Island Cabildo for the latest updates. Here are the seven key points to prepare for.

1. What role will local councils play in holiday rental regulation?

Local councils (Ayuntamientos) will soon decide which areas are suitable for holiday rentals. Their aim is to prevent over-tourism in high-density zones and to keep enough long-term housing available for residents. These zones have not been defined yet, so watch for announcements from your local council.

2. Will new construction limits affect holiday rentals?

Yes. New construction will face stricter limits on holiday rental use.

• No more than 10% of new buildings may be allocated to holiday rental use.
• It is not yet clear whether this will require a specific permit or be linked to the 10-year minimum property age rule.
• Stricter restrictions will apply to "Green Islands," though the islands in this category have not been confirmed.

3. Do I need approval before operating a new holiday rental?

Yes. All new holiday rental properties will need approval from the relevant Island Cabildo before they can operate. Properties must also be ready to comply with upcoming inspection plans.

4. Which properties will not be allowed to operate as holiday rentals?

Properties located in national parks, nature reserves, or areas of high environmental value will not be eligible for holiday rental use. Existing holiday rentals in these areas will not be affected by this new prohibition.

5. What new quality and sustainability standards should I expect?

New requirements are expected to raise the quality and environmental responsibility of holiday rentals. These may include:

• A minimum surface area of 35 m².
• Accessibility for guests with reduced mobility, which is still being defined and may require significant modifications.
• A full list of sustainability and quality standards, which is pending approval.

6. Can I keep operating my existing holiday rental?

Yes. If you already operate a holiday rental, you may continue doing so indefinitely. However, your license cannot be transferred if you sell the property, because it belongs to you and not to the property. This differs from the Balearic Islands, where licenses are tied to the property itself.

Property managers may continue managing existing VVs for 5 years, or up to 10 years if their operations comply with the new regulations. This point is still under discussion and may change.

7. What will I need to open a new holiday rental?

Expect the following requirements for new holiday rentals, though some are still under discussion:

• The building must be at least 10 years old.
• You will need municipal authorisation from your local council (Ayuntamiento).
• The property must fully comply with new safety, health, and environmental regulations.
• The property cannot be located in protected or restricted areas.

Want to stay up to date? Visit the Holidu Help Center for the latest guidance on hosting and compliance.