Tourist Licences and the NEW LAW

Tourist Accommodation Regulation Update in the Valencian Community: Everything You Need to Know About Decree-Law 9/2024

The Valencian Community has implemented new rules for tourist accommodations through Decree-Law 9/2024, which came into effect on August 8, 2024. This decree introduces significant changes to better regulate this growing sector, impacting both property owners and tourists. Here’s a breakdown of the most important changes:

1. Municipal Autonomy to Regulate Tourist Accommodations

Municipalities in the Valencian Community now have the authority to limit the number of tourist accommodations within their jurisdiction. This means each municipality can decide how many tourist properties are allowed in specific areas, based on the public interest. This change aims to balance the tourism supply with the residents’ quality of life.

2. License Renewal Every 5 Years

All tourist accommodations must renew their registration with the Tourism Registry every five years. Additionally, it is mandatory to submit the property’s cadastral reference by December 31, 2024. Failure to do so will result in deregistration, meaning the property will lose its permit to operate as a tourist accommodation.

3. Stricter Penalties

The new decree imposes harsher penalties. Fines can reach up to 600,000 euros for serious violations, such as renting out individual rooms, which is now completely prohibited. Additionally, property owners are subsidiarily liable for any infractions, meaning not only managers or platforms will be fined, but also the property owners themselves.

4. Ban on Key Lockboxes

The use of key lockboxes in common or public areas is now banned. Property owners must provide a reception service or find alternative methods that comply with the regulations, ensuring greater security and control over access to the accommodations.

5. More Efficient Inspections and Use of Technology

Inspection capabilities have been enhanced through the use of artificial intelligence to detect illegal tourist accommodations. Moreover, collaboration with rental platforms and security forces will be increased to ensure that all accommodations comply with current regulations.

Impact on the Sector

These changes aim to create a more regulated and fair environment for operating tourist accommodations in the Valencian Community. It is crucial for all property owners and managers to stay informed and adapt to these new regulations to avoid penalties and continue operating legally.

Conclusion

Decree-Law 9/2024 represents a significant step forward in the regulation of tourist accommodations in the Valencian Community, balancing the need for sustainable tourism with the protection of residents’ rights. If you own or manage a tourist accommodation, make sure to comply with these new requirements.