Holiday Rental Law Changes in Andalucia – What Property Owners Need to Know (April 2025 Update)By Adamson Homes, in collaboration with Asgards Lawyers

Big changes are coming to the holiday rental landscape in Andalucia, and if you’re a property owner, investor, or thinking about entering the short-term rental market on the Costa del Sol, now is the time to get informed. As of April 3rd, 2025, new rules will reshape how holiday rentals—Viviendas de Uso Turístico (VUT)—are regulated.

At Adamson Homes, we pride ourselves on helping our clients navigate every aspect of property ownership in Spain. That’s why we’re working closely with Asgards Lawyers, one of the top legal teams in Andalucia, to keep you fully up to speed on what these changes mean and how to stay compliant.

📌 Key Legal Changes to Holiday Rentals in Andalucia (Effective April 2025)

1. Community of Owners' Approval Now Mandatory

One of the most impactful updates: you’ll now need written approval from your community of property owners before registering a property as a holiday rental. This applies to apartments and homes within urbanisations or residential complexes.

🔑 What this means: If you’re planning to list your property after April 3rd, 2025, make sure your community doesn’t have internal rules that restrict tourist rentals. Without their approval, your registration won’t move forward.

2. No More First Occupation License (FOL) Requirement

Previously, you couldn’t register a holiday rental without a First Occupation License. That’s changing. As of April, you’ll simply need to declare compliance with urban planning laws — no FOL needed.

✅ Pro tip: It’s still a good idea to get an architect’s certificate to back this up, especially if your property is older or lacks paperwork.

3. Updated Size & Safety Standards

Holiday homes now need to meet stricter habitability requirements. This includes:14 square metres per guest minimum two bathrooms required if you sleep 6+, and three bathrooms for 9+ guests. Must include heating, refrigeration, fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and 24-hour contact for emergencies.

📍 Smaller properties and studios may be affected the most — it's worth reviewing your layout now.

4. Zoning Limits on VUTs

Certain towns, including Malaga and Fuengirola, are limiting the number of holiday rentals, especially in buildings without direct street access. That means only detached homes or ground-floor units may qualify in some areas.

📝 Check with the local town hall before buying or listing a property for holiday rental use.

5. Inherited VUTs need to be updated

If you're buying a property that's already a registered VUT, the new owner must update the registration, and the community of owners still has to approve continued use.

👀 Don't assume an existing license automatically carries over—it might not.

6. Third-Party Managers Must Notify Authorities

If your property is managed by an agency or third-party company, they’ll now need to formally notify the Andalucian Tourism Board about each rental. This adds another layer of compliance for agents and owners alike.

📌 Make sure your manager is up-to-date with this rule—or choose one who is.

🏡 How This Affects Property Investment on the Costa del Sol

These updates are a game-changer for the holiday rental market—especially in hotspots like Estepona, Marbella, and Malaga. As regulations tighten, so does the need to partner with the right professionals.

At Adamson Homes, we’re committed to making sure your investment is secure and legally sound. That’s why we’ve teamed up with Asgards Lawyers, leading legal experts in this space, to guide our clients through these changes.

✔️ What You Should Do Before April 3rd, 2025:

✅ Get written permission from your community of owners

✅ Make sure your property meets the new size and safety standards

✅ Update your registration if you’re buying or inheriting a VUT

✅ Ensure your property manager complies with the new third-party rules

Final Thoughts from Adamson Homes

The new laws are here to stay—and they’re reshaping the short-term rental market across Andalucia.

Whether you already own a holiday property or you're looking to invest, staying compliant is critical. Working with experienced real estate professionals and legal advisors can save you time, money, and a lot of stress.

Need help navigating the changes? Reach out to Adamson Homes today.

With our local expertise and the legal support of Asgards Lawyers, we’ll help you make smart, legal, and profitable property decisions.

🌟 New Holiday Rental Laws Are Coming April 2025 – Are You Ready? Don't risk fines or delays.

Make sure your Costa del Sol property is fully compliant with the latest regulations.

🔹 In partnership with Asgards Lawyers🔹 Expert legal & property support🔹 Tailored guidance for property owners and investors

📞 Contact Adamson Homes today for a free consultation. +34 628 161 701

👉 Let’s Talk Compliance | 📧 info@adamsonhomes.com | 📍 Mijas Costa