Changes in the Regulations for Tourist Rentals in the Valencian Community: What Property Owners Should Know

In recent months, we have witnessed a number of changes in the regulations governing tourist rentals in the Valencian Community, something that has undoubtedly generated doubts and questions among property owners. As a real estate agent, I would like to guide you through the most relevant modifications that may affect your property if it is intended for this type of rental.

Why have the regulations been changed?

The rise of tourist rentals in the Valencian Community, especially in cities such as Valencia, Alicante or Castellón, has prompted the authorities to review and adjust the regulations. With the aim of protecting permanent residents, encouraging responsible tourism and avoiding the gentrification of certain areas, the Generalitat Valenciana has taken measures to balance the situation.

Main Changes in the Regulations

1. Mandatory License and Registration in the Tourism Registry of the Valencian Community

One of the most important points of the new regulations is the obligation to obtain a license to rent tourist homes. This implies that owners must register their property in the Tourism Registry of the Valencian Community before being able to legally offer it on platforms such as Airbnb, Booking, etc.

In addition, the regulations impose the obligation for all advertising to include the registration number, in order to ensure that tourists know that the property complies with the legal requirements.

2. Restrictions in Saturated Areas

The decree establishes new restrictions in areas saturated by the high demand for tourist rentals. In these areas, the granting of new licenses will be limited. The city councils of each city will have the power to declare specially protected or saturated areas, where the number of tourist homes will be kept under control.

For example, in the historic centre of Valencia, which is one of the most affected areas, the possibility of limiting the number of tourist accommodations is already being discussed in order to protect residents' access to their usual residence.

3. Habitability and Safety Conditions

Another relevant change affects the habitability and safety conditions of tourist accommodations. The requirements regarding the standards that properties must meet have been tightened. This includes having security measures, such as smoke detectors, fire extinguishers and adequate evacuation systems.

Tourist accommodations must also guarantee a minimum level of comfort, so proper ventilation, natural lighting, and optimal maintenance of furniture and appliances will be required. These requirements are essential not only to protect tourists, but also to raise the quality of the tourist offer in the region.

4. Maximum Length of Stay

The new regulations also impose limits on the maximum length of stay for tourists. In some cases, a maximum number of days that a home can be rented for tourist purposes in a calendar year may be established. This will depend, again, on the local regulations of each municipality, so it is essential that property owners stay informed about the provisions in their area.

5. Penalties and Control

For those who do not comply with the new requirements, the penalties will be more severe. The government has strengthened inspection mechanisms to ensure compliance with the regulations, and fines can range from 10,000 to 600,000 euros, depending on the severity of the violation. Not having a license, falsifying data in the registry or failing to comply with safety regulations are some of the most serious violations that property owners should avoid.

Tips for Property Owners

• Be well informed about local regulations. Although the Generalitat Valenciana dictates the general regulations, each city council can establish specific rules.

• Check if your property is located in a saturated or protected area. This will affect your ability to obtain a license.

• Make the necessary reforms. If your property does not meet safety or habitability standards, you must make the necessary improvements before offering it for tourist rental.

• Stay up to date. Regulations are still evolving, and more changes may be introduced in the future.

Conclusion

The new tourist rental regulations in the Valencian Community seek to create a balance between economic development, tourism and the daily lives of local residents. If you are the owner of a tourist property, it is essential that you adapt to these changes in order to avoid sanctions and continue to offer your property in a legal and safe manner. Although some of the new requirements may seem demanding, they ultimately seek to improve the experience of tourists and encourage sustainable growth of tourism in the region.

If you have questions or need advice on how to adapt your property to these new regulations, do not hesitate to contact us. We will be happy to help you navigate these changes so that you continue to get the most out of your investment.