The Canary Islands is introducing a new regulatory framework for Viviendas Vacacionales (VV), the local term for holiday rentals. The changes give local councils more control over where holiday rentals can operate, limit new construction, require prior authorisation, and set new quality standards. Hosts should understand these seven changes now and monitor updates from their local council and Island Cabildo.

1. What role will local councils play?

Local councils (Ayuntamientos) will decide which areas are suitable for holiday rentals. The goal is to prevent over-tourism in high-density zones and keep enough long-term housing available for residents. These zones have not been defined yet, so watch for announcements from your local council.

2. How will new construction be affected?

Stricter limits will apply to new buildings:

• A maximum of 10% of new buildings may be allocated to holiday rental use.
• It is not yet clear whether this will require a specific permit or be linked to the minimum building age rule of 10 years.
• Stricter restrictions are planned for "Green Islands," but it has not been confirmed which islands will fall under this category.

3. Will I need prior authorisation to operate?

Yes. New holiday rental properties will need approval from the relevant Island Cabildo before they can operate. They will also need to comply with upcoming inspection plans.

4. Which properties will be excluded from holiday rental use?

Properties located in national parks, nature reserves, and areas of high environmental value will not be eligible for holiday rental use. Existing holiday rentals in these areas will not be affected by this new prohibition.

5. What new quality and sustainability standards should hosts expect?

New requirements are expected to raise the quality and environmental responsibility of holiday rentals. These may include:

• A minimum surface area of 35 m².
• Accessibility for people with reduced mobility. This is still being defined and may require complex modifications.
• A final list of sustainability and quality standards, which is pending approval.

6. What happens to existing holiday rentals?

If you already operate a holiday rental, you can continue doing so indefinitely. However, your license belongs to you and cannot be transferred if the property is sold.

Property managers may continue managing existing VVs for 5 years, or up to 10 years if their operations comply with the upcoming regulations. This point is still under discussion and may change.

7. What will be required for a new holiday rental?

If you plan to open a new holiday rental, you should expect the following requirements, which are still being finalised:

• The building must be at least 10 years old (under discussion).
• You will need municipal authorisation from your local council (Ayuntamiento).
• You must fully comply with all new safety, health, and environmental regulations.
• The property cannot be located in protected or restricted areas.