In a significant move to address housing problems, the Granadilla de Abona City Council unanimously approved the municipality's first ordinance yesterday (Thursday) to regulate holiday rentals in residential homes and complexes located in the municipality which includes El Medano, Los Abrigos, La Tejita, and San Isidro.
The new regulation, open for a 30-day public review period, forms part of a broader strategy aimed at tackling housing issues in the south of Tenerife, which is considered one of the most pressing concerns across the Canary Islands, according to Mayor Jennifer Miranda.
The regulation, introduced by Deputy Mayor and Urban Planning Councillor Óscar Delgado, is designed to establish a balance between residential needs and the tourism-driven holiday rental market. “We recognise the value of holiday rentals, but we must also address their challenges,” he explained, emphasising the urgent need for this measure.
The ordinance aims to introduce intensity limits on land designated for residential use, fostering harmonious coexistence between residents and rental property owners. Currently, there are 1,918 homes, representing over 9% of the municipality’s housing stock, being used for holiday rentals.
Mayor Miranda highlighted the significance of the decision, thanking the council for its unified support. She called on the Canary Islands Government and other relevant authorities to heed Granadilla’s requests for additional support, including a temporary moratorium on holiday rentals and the creation of an inspectorate to address irregular building practices.
Through the Canary Federation of Municipalities (FECAM), the council has urged regional action to tackle housing shortages and support compliance with rental regulations.
This ordinance aims to improve housing availability by ensuring that properties used for short-term rentals adhere to legal standards without restricting all holiday rentals. Councillor Marcos Antonio Rodríguez, in charge of Municipal Public Services, emphasised that this ordinance is an essential tool for addressing the municipality's housing crisis, reinforcing the local government’s commitment to its residents.
Key Regulations Under the New Ordinance
This ordinance underscores Granadilla de Abona’s proactive stance on regulating the holiday rental sector to protect the municipality’s housing stock and promote fair and accessible living conditions for all residents.
