The Govern has announced a set of measures aimed at tourism containment in Balearic Islands, with the goal of ensuring sustainability in the sector and reducing the impact of tourism on the archipelago. The key actions include the modification of the Sustainable Tourism Tax (ITS) – ecotax – which will increase by up to 200% in high season, the ban on new tourist accommodations in multi-family dwellings, and the implementation of a new tax on holiday vehicles. Additionally, the fight against illegal tourism offers will be intensified, with fines of up to €500,000.

The Govern will negotiate these measures with parliamentary groups for their final approval in the Parliament of the Balearic Islands.

Main measures for tourism containment in Balearic Islands:

  • Increase in ITS during high season: The Sustainable Tourism Tax (ITS) will be divided into four tiers and will include an increase of between 66% and 200%, depending on the category, during June, July, and August. During this period, the lowest rate will rise from €1 to €2.5 per night, while the highest will increase from €4 to €6 per night. For cruise ships, the tax will rise from €2 to €6 per passenger per night (+200%).
  • Tax deduction for residents: A deduction of up to €250 per year in income tax returns will be introduced to compensate residents for ITS payments when staying in tourist accommodations in the archipelago.
  • New tax on holiday vehicles: A charge of between €35 and €150, based on emissions and time of circulation, will be applied to private vehicles staying on the islands for less than six months and to rental vehicles not registered as tourist vehicles. The revenue will be allocated to public transport.
  • Ban on new tourist accommodation in multi-family dwellings: The creation of new tourist places in these types of residences will be prohibited, and higher quality standards will be required for the renewal of existing places.
  • Exchange and containment of tourist places: The exchange system for tourist places and the conversion of tourist accommodations into residential properties will be reactivated, pending the insular councils’ definition of the maximum capacity and tourism load limits.

Fight against illegal tourism offers:

  • Sanctions against illegal tourist accommodation: Fines will be increased by 25%, reaching up to €500,000. Rental platforms will be required to verify the registration number of the accommodation before listing it.
  • Incentives for conversion to social housing: Tourist properties that are converted into social or price-capped rentals may benefit from a reduction of up to 80% in imposed fines.
  • Saturated and reconversion zones: New saturated areas and reconversion zones may be designated, with specific strategic plans. Furthermore, the modernisation of tourist establishments in these areas will be encouraged.