Is Airbnb Legal in Madrid?

By Alice Nichols

Are you planning a trip to Madrid and considering Airbnb as your accommodation option? You might be wondering whether it is legal or not. The answer to this question is not straightforward, so let’s dive into the details.

What is Airbnb?

Airbnb is an online platform that allows people to rent out their homes or apartments to travelers. It was founded in 2008 and has since become one of the most popular ways for people to find affordable and unique accommodations while traveling.

The Legal Situation in Madrid

In 2019, the Madrid City Council approved new regulations that require homeowners to obtain a license from the city before renting out their properties on platforms like Airbnb. This license is only granted if the property meets certain requirements, such as having a separate entrance, fire extinguishers, and smoke detectors.

Furthermore, the regulations state that only entire homes can be rented out for up to 90 days per year. Renting out individual rooms or apartments for shorter periods of time is prohibited. Additionally, the regulations require hosts to keep detailed records of their guests’ information and report it to authorities.

Penalties for Breaking the Regulations

If hosts do not comply with these regulations, they could face fines of up to €100,000. Furthermore, Airbnb itself could face fines of up to €600,000 for advertising unlicensed properties.

Conclusion

To answer the question – Is Airbnb legal in Madrid? The answer is yes but with certain restrictions and regulations that need to be followed by hosts. If you are planning on using Airbnb as your accommodation in Madrid, make sure that you are booking a licensed property that complies with all city regulations.

By following these guidelines and being aware of the regulations in place, you can enjoy your stay in Madrid without any legal complications.