Fuengirola, a vibrant coastal town on Spain’s Costa del Sol, is a popular destination for tourists from around the world. However, as the number of short-term vacation rentals has surged, the city has introduced new regulations aimed at balancing tourism growth with the quality of life for its residents. These changes, effective from August 2024, mark a significant shift in the city’s approach to tourist accommodations.
With these new regulations in place, effective villa rental management and property management have become even more crucial for owners looking to navigate the local rental market successfully. Ensuring compliance with the latest laws while maximizing rental income is essential for maintaining a profitable and hassle-free rental business.
Key Changes to Fuengirola’s Tourist Accommodation Policies
On August 13, 2024, Fuengirola’s City Council reviewed a study conducted by a specialized consultancy firm on the impact of tourist accommodations. The study revealed that these rentals have created significant residential pressure, particularly in the city’s more densely populated areas. In response, the local government is taking a range of actions to manage this growing trend.
Here are the key changes:
- Cancellation of Over 600 Tourist Accommodation Registrations
Fuengirola is requesting that the Junta de Andalucía cancel around 600 tourist accommodation registrations due to non-compliance with local urban development laws. Specifically, these properties violate Article 7.1.6 of the General Urban Development Plan (PGOU), which governs tourist accommodations in the region. The regulation, effective since February 22, 2024, states that apartments without independent entrances cannot be processed as vacation rental properties. - Increased Fees for Tourist Accommodations
Tourist properties will now be subject to higher municipal waste collection fees. These fees will be calculated based on the square meters of the property, bringing them in line with other tourist businesses such as hotels and hostels. - Removal of the 30% IBI Discount
Owners of tourist accommodations who previously received a 30% discount on the Property Tax (IBI) will no longer benefit from this reduction. This change aligns tourist accommodations with other economic activities in the city.
Why These Changes Matter
The Fuengirola City Council’s goal is to ensure that tourism remains a key part of the local economy while maintaining a high quality of life for residents. By restricting the number of new tourist accommodations and introducing higher fees, the council hopes to limit residential pressure, especially in the areas most impacted by the growth of vacation rentals.
These changes come on the heels of a study by Espacio Común COOP, which found that the residential-tourist pressure in Fuengirola is double that of nearby cities like Málaga. The study also revealed a rapid growth in tourist accommodations—up 30% since 2020—leading to concerns about the impact on local housing availability and the character of the community.
How Vivi Property Management Can Help
At Vivi Property Management, we understand that these changes can be complex and challenging to navigate. Whether you’re a property owner looking to list your vacation rental or an investor with a portfolio of properties in Fuengirola, our property management expert on the Costa del Sol can provide the guidance and support you need to ensure your properties comply with local regulations. We’re here to help you maximize your rental income while keeping everything hassle-free and compliant.
Here’s how we can help:
- Compliance with Local Laws: We stay up-to-date with all the latest regulatory changes, including the recent shift in Fuengirola’s tourist accommodation rules. We will ensure that your property is registered correctly and meets all the requirements set by the local government.
- Maximizing Rental Income: With the changing landscape of the tourist accommodation market, we can help you optimize your property’s rental potential. We’ll advise on the best pricing strategies and booking platforms to ensure you get the highest return on your investment.
- Ongoing Support: As these regulations evolve, we’ll provide continuous support to keep your property compliant and profitable. We can also help you navigate any additional fees or taxes that may arise.
What You Should Do Now
If you’re a property owner in Fuengirola, now is the time to review your current rental strategy. With over 600 properties under scrutiny and new fees in place, it’s essential to stay informed and compliant. Vivi Property Management is here to help you adapt to the changing landscape, ensuring that your properties remain profitable while adhering to all local laws.
If you need assistance understanding how these new regulations affect your property or would like help with managing your vacation rental, contact Vivi Property Management today. Our team of experts can provide tailored advice to keep your business running smoothly in Fuengirola’s evolving market.
About Vivi Property Management
At Vivi Property Management, we specialize in holiday rental management to help property owners maximize their rental income while ensuring full compliance with local regulations. Our team of experts in property management, legal matters, and market trends offers a hassle-free service to property owners in Fuengirola and beyond. Whether you’re a new investor or a seasoned landlord, we can help you navigate the complexities of the local property market and ensure your holiday rental property is managed efficiently and profitably.
Contact Vivi Property Management today to learn how we can help you optimize your rental income and take the stress out of property management!