When planning a trip to Barcelona, accommodation is one of the most important aspects to consider. Amongst the many options available, Airbnb has become a popular choice for travelers seeking a unique and authentic experience.
However, in recent years, the legality of Airbnb rentals in Barcelona has been a controversial topic. So, where does Airbnb stand in Barcelona?
Background
In 2014, the government of Catalonia introduced legislation requiring all tourist accommodations to be licensed and registered with the Catalan Tourism Register. This included short-term rentals such as those offered on Airbnb. The law was put in place to regulate tourism and ensure that accommodations met certain safety standards.
However, many Airbnb hosts did not comply with the new regulations, leading to fines and legal action taken against them. In 2016, the government of Catalonia increased fines for illegal tourist accommodations from €30,000 to €600,000.
The Current State of Airbnb in Barcelona
As of 2021, it is still possible to find listings for Airbnb rentals in Barcelona. However, there are strict regulations that hosts must comply with in order to operate legally.
One such regulation requires hosts to obtain a license from the Catalan Tourism Register and register their rental property as a tourist accommodation. Additionally, hosts must display their license number on their listing and collect a tourist tax from guests.
Another regulation limits the number of days per year that a host can rent out their property as a tourist accommodation. Hosts can only rent out their primary residence for up to 60 days per year. If they wish to rent out additional properties or rent out their primary residence for more than 60 days per year, they must obtain additional licenses from the government.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
The penalties for non-compliance with these regulations are steep. Illegal tourist accommodations can be fined up to €600,000 by the government of Catalonia. In addition to fines, Airbnb can also be held liable for facilitating illegal rentals and can be fined up to €30,000 per listing.
The Future of Airbnb in Barcelona
The future of Airbnb in Barcelona is uncertain. While it is still possible to find listings on the platform, the government of Catalonia has made it clear that they are cracking down on illegal tourist accommodations. It remains to be seen whether Airbnb will be able to comply with the strict regulations and continue operating in the city.
In conclusion, while it is still possible to find Airbnb rentals in Barcelona, it is important for hosts and guests alike to comply with the strict regulations set forth by the government of Catalonia. Failure to do so can result in hefty fines and legal action taken against both hosts and Airbnb itself.