New measures to curb mass tourism in Spain's Balearic Islands

Authorities in the Balearic Islands—Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera—are introducing a series of measures aimed at controlling mass tourism and fostering a more sustainable tourism model. These initiatives include taxes on rental vehicles and steep fines for illegal tourist accommodations.

The regional government in the Balearic Islands is spearheading these proposals amidst growing concerns over overtourism. With a resident population of just 1.2 million, the islands welcomed an astonishing 18.7 million tourists in 2024, raising alarms about the sustainability of the current tourism model.

Regional president Marga Prohens has promoted a comprehensive plan that encompasses an increase in the existing ‘ecotax’ or tourist tax, the introduction of a new tax on non-resident vehicles, and stricter regulations on holiday rentals. These proposals have sparked significant debate within the local tourism sector.

For these plans to materialize, the governing center-right Partido Popular must secure support from the Balearic legislature, a prospect that remains uncertain. In response, various employers' organizations in the tourism sector have voiced concerns that these regulations could diminish the competitive edge of the Balearic Islands compared to other Mediterranean destinations.

Criticism has also emerged from local tour guide associations, who have labeled the measures as overly harsh. However, claims that the new rules treat tourists poorly have been largely debunked by investigations.

Focus on taxes and accommodation

The proposed measures to address mass tourism in the Balearic Islands revolve around two main themes: taxation and accommodation restrictions.

- Sustainable tourism tax: The eco-tax will see an increase of up to €6 per night during the summer months, while it will be reduced in winter. Currently, the tax stands at €4. For cruise passengers, the tax will triple from €2 to €6 during peak season.

- Tourist vehicle tax: A new tax will be levied on tourist vehicles, affecting both rental cars and private vehicles brought from the mainland. The tax will vary based on the vehicle's emissions and duration of stay on the islands, ranging from €30 to €150. Residents using foreign-registered vehicles will also be subject to this tax.

- Tourist accommodation bans: There will be a prohibition on the establishment of new tourist accommodations in multi-family residential buildings.

- Illegal tourist flat fines: Penalties for illegal tourist accommodations will be significantly increased, with fines potentially reaching €500,000. Notably, there will be an 80% reduction in penalties if these properties are repurposed for social or affordable housing.

- Regulation of saturated areas: New regulations will be established for areas deemed 'saturated' or in need of redevelopment. Such designations will be made by island councils following the submission of a strategic action plan for accommodation.

These measures reflect a growing commitment to sustainable tourism in the Balearic Islands, aiming to balance the economic benefits of tourism with the need to protect the local environment and community.