In Malaga, the issuance of new licenses for tourist apartments has been suspended for the next three years. This decision was made by the city council, which has begun the process of amending the General Urban Development Plan. The restrictions will remain in effect until the updated regulations are completed or the established period expires.
This move is the latest in a series of measures aimed at curbing the growth of tourist apartments in the city. Previously, the authorities restricted the issuance of permits for apartments located within residential complexes to prevent tourists from using common areas with permanent residents. A ban was then introduced on new licenses in districts where tourist apartments account for more than 8% of the total housing stock.
Currently, 12,754 properties in Malaga are registered with a tourist rental license, although only 8,596 of them are actually in operation. The municipality emphasizes that some of these apartments do not meet the new requirements and should be removed from the registry.
The temporary suspension of license issuance was made possible thanks to provisions in the new Andalusian law, which allows local authorities to limit or completely halt the issuance of permits for tourist accommodation. To do so, they must justify the need for and proportionality of such measures.
City authorities note that tourism remains an important part of Malaga’s economy. However, a temporary moratorium is necessary for a thorough analysis of the rental market and to find a balance between the interests of the tourism sector and local residents. One of the goals is to encourage the development of long-term rentals, as the supply of affordable housing for permanent residents remains limited.
Authorities also highlight that many property owners prefer to rent to tourists due to difficulties with evicting unreliable tenants in long-term leases. This adds additional pressure to the housing market.
As part of the new draft General Urban Development Plan, various options for urban development are being discussed. These include supporting new forms of housing, such as cohousing, coliving, and flexible rental models. There is also consideration of increasing the number of hotels, especially high-end ones, to expand the city’s tourism infrastructure.
The municipality emphasizes that Malaga seeks to maintain its status as one of Spain’s and Europe’s leading cities, attract investment, and retain local talent. Authorities intend to create conditions for business development and construction, as well as ensure the harmonious coexistence of tourists and permanent residents.
