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The 43 areas in Málaga where new tourist accommodations are now banned

Centro histórico de Málaga
On January 14, 2025, a new municipal regulation came into effect in Málaga, prohibiting the registration of new tourist accommodations in 43 areas of the city. This measure aims to regulate the tourism supply in neighborhoods where the high concentration of holiday rentals exceeds 8% of the housing stock, ensuring a balance between tourism activity and the housing needs of local residents.

What does this new regulation entail?

The regulation divides Málaga into three zones based on the density of tourist accommodations:

  • Reduction zone: Includes 43 neighborhoods where tourist accommodations account for more than 8% of the housing stock. No new registrations are allowed here.
  • Containment zone: Covers 32 neighborhoods where tourist accommodations represent between 4.53% and 8%. New registrations are permitted up to the 8% limit.
  • Moderate growth zone: Neighborhoods with less than 4.53% of tourist accommodations. New registrations are allowed but must meet specific requirements, such as separate entrances and independent services.

The regulation also establishes fines of up to €50,000 for those operating tourist accommodations without a license or failing to meet the set requirements.

Neighborhoods affected by the ban

Some of Málaga’s most iconic neighborhoods included in the reduction zone are:

  • Historic Center
  • La Malagueta
  • El Ejido
  • La Merced
  • Pedregalejo Playa
  • La Trinidad
  • Plaza de Toros Vieja
  • Santa Paula-Miramar
  • Pacífico
  • Torres de la Serna

In total, 43 neighborhoods have been identified where no new tourist accommodations can be registered. Check out the full list here.

Why has this measure been implemented?

The supply of holiday rentals in Málaga has significantly increased in recent years. According to recent studies, tourist rentals represent a substantial portion of the housing stock in certain areas, leading to tensions among neighbors, property owners, and property managers.

With this regulation, Málaga’s city council aims to ensure sustainable tourism development while safeguarding residents’ right to housing and preventing gentrification in the most affected neighborhoods.

Impact on property managers

For property managers in Málaga, this regulation means adapting to a stricter regulatory environment. Those already operating tourist accommodations in affected areas must ensure full compliance with the legal requirements to avoid penalties. In containment and moderate growth zones, new registrations must also meet additional criteria, such as providing independent entrances for guests.

At Roomonitor, we understand the importance of complying with local regulations and managing properties responsibly. Our noise monitoring solutions and Alarm Assistant services help property managers maintain harmonious coexistence in communities while optimizing operations.

If you’d like to learn more about how our tools can help you adapt to this new regulatory framework in Málaga, get in touch with us here.