The government of the Canary Islands approved a decree on Friday that regulates outdoor tourist accommodation for the first time. The tourism and employment department led by Yéssica de León submitted the proposal.
Five types of accommodation
The decree sets out five forms: campsites; camping areas for motorhomes, caravans and similar vehicles; overnight areas for these vehicles; camping areas at isolated rural buildings; and special tourist accommodation such as yurts and treehouses. Each type has its own requirements for operation, facilities and services, along with rules on hygiene, water supply, waste management, safety and accessibility. Campsites and motorhome camping areas will have classification systems.
The decree separates parking a motorhome from camping. Overnight areas are meant for rest and allow a stay of no more than 72 hours. Parking is subject to traffic rules and local restrictions. Municipalities decide where the spaces for these sites are located. Existing sites have five years to adapt their facilities and services to the new rules.
To open a site, the operator must submit a responsible declaration to the island council, which holds tourism powers in the Canary Islands. Planning, environmental and safety licences are also required. The decree does not allow these sites on any plot of land: urban planning rules apply.
The decree enters into force three months after publication in the official gazette of the Canary Islands. During that period the tourism and employment department will hold information meetings on the islands for public authorities, businesses and new operators.