Tourist rentals in the Valencian region (Alicante, Valencia, Castellon) remain a contentious issue. The regional government has recently enacted Decree 9/2024, aimed at addressing various challenges related to this type of accommodation. Issues such as conflicts between neighbours and tourists. The impact on the property market. The lack of housing for permanent residents. Illegal rental offerings. Etc. In this week’s article, we review the key changes and requirements that must be met from now on to obtain a tourist rental license.
Unique and Individualised Cadastral Reference.
All tourist properties must have an individualised cadastral reference. Property owners have until December 31st, 2024, to submit this information to the relevant authorities. Properties failing to do so will be removed from the register of tourism properties.
Local Authorities’ Limitations on Tourist Use.
The decree grants more autonomy to local councils in regulating the use of these properties. From now on, councils can impose restrictions on the maximum number of tourist rentals allowed in a building, area, or zone. These limitations must be proportionate and serve the public interest.
For instance, the Town Hall of Denia has unanimously decided to suspend the issuance of certificates of urban compatibility, which are necessary to obtain a tourist rental license.
Definition of Tourist Rentals: Stay Duration, Room Rentals, etc.
Another key aspect of the new decree is the clearer definition of what constitutes a tourist rental, to avoid confusion with other types of rentals, such as seasonal lettings. A tourist rental is now defined as one where the duration does not exceed 10 days. Provided that it is rented to the same tenant, and all other requirements set out in the decree are met.
Homeowners’ Associations and the Prohibition or Limitation of Tourist Rentals.
From now on, to obtain a tourist rental license, if the property is part of a homeowners’ association, it is required that the community of owners has not prohibited or limited such activity. A Land Registry certification must be provided, confirming that the constitutive deed, statutes, or any community agreement does not restrict tourist rentals within the association.
Other Requirements to Obtain a Tourist License.
Additionally, any property intended for tourist rentals in the Valencian region must have an Energy Efficiency Certificate and civil liability insurance. Furthermore, the use of key boxes installed in public spaces for key handovers is now prohibited. Property owners must also provide guests with a 24-hour customer service telephone number. Finally, licenses will be valid for 5 years. After this period, the license must be renewed, and compliance with all requirements must be demonstrated.
At White-Baos Lawyers, we are experts in Horizontal Property Law, obtaining tourist rental licenses, and court claims related to tourist rentals in the Valencian region. If you need expert legal advice on tourist rentals in the Valencian Community, do not hesitate to contact us.
