Is Airbnb legal in Cádiz?

In Cadiz, recent developments have established stringent regulations on Airbnb and other short-term rental properties, particularly in the city's historical center. As of December 2024, Mayor Bruno García has implemented a ban on new tourist flats in this area, restricting landlords from registering their properties for tourist licenses with the Junta de Andalucía. The city had already deregistered about 300 non-compliant Airbnb listings over the past year, reflecting an ongoing effort to combat the adverse effects of excessive tourism, such as housing shortages and rising rents, which have seen an increase of 6.1% in the city within the last year.

This crackdown aims to improve housing availability for local residents and preserve the character of Cadiz, especially as other Spanish cities like Sevilla and Malaga have faced backlash regarding the overwhelming presence of tourist accommodations. In tandem with the ban, the city is instituting a crackdown on existing unlicensed properties through inspections and potential heavy fines for non-compliant hosts. A dedicated hotline for residents will be set up to report suspected illegal rentals, underscoring the commitment of local authorities to maintain the integrity of residential neighborhoods.

Overall, the new regulations reflect a growing trend in many Spanish cities to balance the needs of tourism and the well-being of local communities. The aim is to foster a more sustainable tourism model that prioritizes the needs of residents while still accommodating visitors.