Tourist Licences

The what, the how and the why of Tourist Licences

There’s been a good deal of discussion, debate and frustration lately surrounding the obligation for Tourist Licences.

So, if you’re a homeowner in the Municipality of Pilar de la Horadada – and planning to offer your property for rent – this article will help dispel some of the myths.

The black, white and grey areas of requiring and applying for a Tourist Licence.

Let’s start with some of the basics.

Do I need a Tourist Licence to rent out my property?

In short, the answer is “yes” – but then again – “no”.

In essence, if you’re letting out your property to paying guests for holiday rentals (generally up to eight weeks), then a Tourist Licence is required. For extended stays from eight weeks to ten months – or for long-term rentals of more than 11 months – then a licence is not mandatory.

However, in respect of holiday rentals, if you’re renting out your property only to “friends and family” – and no money changes hands in lieu of your generosity – then a Tourist Licence is not required.

But remember, if challenged, you and your guests may need to prove that you are “friends” or indeed family relations!

 

What is a local Tourist Licence – and why is it important?

Just as the award of a licence to drive a vehicle on the public highway recognises that you have qualified to hold that licence, the issue of a Tourist Licence demonstrates that you (as the property owner) and your property meet certain criteria set out by the local authority to legally rent out that property.

In our own municipality, Tourist Licences are issued by the Ayuntamiento in Pilar de la Horadada.

How do I apply for a Tourist Licence – and what is the process?

There are four key stages in the process of applying for your Tourist Licence.

1) Compilation of personal and property documentation

2) Presentation of documents to your legal adviser or directly to the Ayuntamiento

3) Application for a Compatibility Report

4) Application for the Tourist Licence

 

Which documents are required for the applications?

  • NIE/DNI certificate of property owner *

  • Valid passport of property owner *

  • Escritura or Nota Simple of the property

  • A recent IBI (SUMA) invoice for the property

  • Habitation Certificate of Second Occupation

  • A photograph of the front exterior of the property

* If more than one owner is listed on the deeds then personal ID will be required for multiple owners

 

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