Barcelona takes first step to regulate short-term rentals

Barcelona has begun the process of regulating short-term and room rentals.

On Thursday, the city council approved an amendment to local housing regulations, paving the way for future measures to manage these types of rentals.

Future urban planning frameworks or local regulations could prohibit, limit or restrict such uses.

The amendment, approved by the Socialist-led government with the support of the left-wing Comuns, aims to prioritize long-term rentals.

Under the new rules, landlords will be required to provide documented proof of work, medical, educational, or similar reasons to justify seasonal rentals.

In addition, the law will allow for specific restrictions by district, neighborhood or building to "protect" residents. 

However, final approval is not expected until the second quarter of 2025, after which the measure will need the green light from the Catalan government.

First deputy mayor Laia Bonet stressed that the city "cannot afford" to allow short-term rentals to circumvent rent regulations.

To learn more about Barcelona's housing crisis, listen to this episode of our podcast Filling the Sink.