Barcelona to Implement Total Ban on Short-Term Rentals by 2029

Barcelona is set to enforce a comprehensive ban on all short-term rentals by November 2028, a decision driven by growing concerns over housing affordability and the impact of tourism on local communities.

This significant move, announced by Mayor Jaume Collboni, aims to address the pressing housing crisis that has seen rental prices soar and many residents pushed out of the market.

Key Highlights of the Move:
1. Immediate Action on Licenses: The city will cease issuing new licenses for short-term rentals and will not renew existing permits. By 2029, no residential properties will be allowed to operate as tourist accommodations, effectively removing approximately 10,000 registered short-term rentals from the market.

2. Addressing Housing Shortages: Mayor Collboni emphasized the need for more housing supply to support the working middle class, stating, “We cannot permit that the majority of young people who wish to leave home also have to leave Barcelona.” The ban is part of a broader strategy to alleviate the housing crisis that has been exacerbated by the proliferation of short-term rentals, which many believe contribute to rising rents.

3. Impact on the Tourism Sector: This decision is expected to significantly affect online platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com, which have been under scrutiny in various European cities for their role in the housing market. Critics argue that short-term rentals have led to inflated prices and reduced availability of long-term housing options for locals.

4. Comparative Context: Barcelona’s ban is among the most stringent regulations seen globally, surpassing measures in cities like New York and Berlin. While other cities have implemented various restrictions on short-term rentals, Barcelona’s complete prohibition marks a notable shift in regulatory approaches.

5. Historical Context: This is not Barcelona’s first attempt to regulate the short-term rental market. Previous efforts, including a ban on private room rentals in 2019, failed to curb rising rental prices. The city has since shut down thousands of illegal rentals, but the persistent housing crisis necessitated more decisive action.