Barcelona has introduced stricter regulations for short-term rentals to address concerns about rising housing costs and the impact on local communities. The city council approved the new measures aimed at limiting the number of tourist accommodations and ensuring fair competition with traditional hotels.

The regulations, which went into effect immediately, include a complete ban on new tourist apartments in the city center and strict requirements for existing rentals to obtain licenses. This is expected to significantly reduce the availability of short-term rentals in popular neighborhoods.

Under the new rules, only properties with a separate entrance and a certificate of occupancy as a tourist apartment will be eligible for a license. Existing rentals that do not meet these criteria will be phased out over the next five years.

The city council hopes that by reducing the number of tourist apartments, more properties will become available for long-term residents, helping to ease the housing crisis. Officials have also expressed concern about the impact of mass tourism on the quality of life for locals, including increased noise and overcrowding.

Property owners who violate the new regulations could face hefty fines. The city council has pledged to increase inspections and enforcement efforts to ensure compliance.