Canary Islands Tourism Municipal Law

Overview

The Canary Islands Parliament has approved a new law establishing a clear legal framework for 'tourism municipalities' in the archipelago. This law responds to the growing tourism industry, which has become a cornerstone of the local economy but also poses challenges related to infrastructure, environment, and urban management.

Objectives and Definitions

• Designed to better address the unique needs of municipalities with high tourist influx.
• Defines criteria for declaring a municipality 'of excellence' or 'of singularity' based on:
  • tourism activity,
  • resources, and
  • economic impact.
• Grants these municipalities specific rights and obligations, such as:
  • prioritizing tourism services,
  • conserving natural and cultural heritage,
  • promoting sustainable and inclusive tourism.

Administrative Measures

• Creates mechanisms for administrative organization, including:
  • specialized councils,
  • district juntas,
  • sector-specific advisory bodies.
• Aimed at improving local governance and citizen participation.

Goals and Impact

"The legislation aims to empower local governments to manage the increasing pressure from tourism more effectively, ensuring a balance between economic benefits and the preservation of local environments and communities."

• Seeks to boost the competitiveness of these areas.
• Focuses on safeguarding social and ecological sustainability.

Implementation

• The law will come into effect the day after its publication in the Official Gazette of the Canary Islands.
• Marks a significant step towards formalizing the tourism sector’s role in:
  • local governance, and
  • regional development.