Understanding Spain’s New Short-Term Rental Regulations: A Quick Guide for Property Owners

As of July 1, 2025, Spain has implemented comprehensive regulations governing short-term rentals, aligning with the EU Regulation 2024/1028 and the national Royal Decree 1312/2024. These measures aim to enhance transparency, reduce illegal listings, and address housing shortages exacerbated by unregulated tourist accommodations. 

Key Requirements for Property Owners

1. Mandatory Registration

   All properties intended for short-term rental must obtain a unique registration number. This applies to listings on online platforms facilitating remote bookings and payments, such as Airbnb and Booking.com. Without this registration, properties cannot legally operate on these platforms.

2. Registration Process

   Owners must register through the Colegio de Registradores or the newly established Ventanilla Única Digital. Required documentation includes the property’s cadastral reference, exact address, rental type (entire property or individual rooms), and compliance with local regulations.

3. Community Approval

   From April 3, 2025, obtaining explicit consent from the homeowners’ association is mandatory for short-term rentals. A 3/5 majority vote is required, granting communities greater control over tourist accommodations within their premises.

4. Compliance with Local Regulations

   Property owners must adhere to regional and municipal laws, which may include obtaining specific licenses, meeting safety and health standards, and fulfilling tax obligations. Failure to comply can result in substantial fines or legal action.

Implications for the Rental Market

These regulations are part of broader efforts to mitigate the housing crisis in Spain, where the proliferation of short-term rentals has been linked to rising property prices and reduced availability for long-term residents. Cities like Barcelona and Málaga have already implemented measures to limit or phase out tourist accommodations in certain areas.

Action Steps for Property Owners

• Register Promptly: Ensure your property is registered before the July 1 deadline to avoid penalties.

• Engage with Your Community: Seek approval from your homeowners’ association, understanding that community sentiment plays a crucial role in the authorization process. 

• Stay Informed: Regularly consult local regulations and updates to remain compliant with evolving laws.

• Seek Professional Advice: Consider consulting with legal or property management professionals to navigate the complexities of these new regulations effectively.

By proactively adhering to these requirements, property owners can continue to participate in Spain’s short-term rental market while contributing to sustainable tourism and housing practices.

REF: https://www.mivau.gob.es/vivienda/alquiler-de-alojamientos-de-corta-duracion