Written by Canary Islands to Regulate Camping and Campervans for the First Time
The Canary Islands government is preparing to introduce a groundbreaking decree to regulate campsites, camping activities, campervans, and unique holiday accommodations. This initiative, set to enter public consultation soon, will provide the first official legal framework for the sector since the 1995 Tourism Law.
The regional Minister for Tourism, Jéssica de León, emphasized that camping will now be recognized as a “tourist activity of interest” for the archipelago. The decree aims to establish quality standards, designated transit areas, and authorized overnight locations to balance tourism growth with environmental preservation and community needs.
The proposed regulations are part of a broader strategy to manage tourism responsibly. The government hopes to address challenges such as over-tourism and the impacts of unregulated camping. Municipalities like Arona in southern Tenerife are already working on local ordinances to manage the influx of campervans and caravans, aiming to prevent congestion and reduce environmental impact.
In addition to promoting sustainable tourism, the decree is expected to foster entrepreneurship within the sector, offering new opportunities for local businesses. Authorities are committed to ensuring the proposed measures align with both local interests and tourism development strategies.
The move comes amid growing concerns about over-tourism across the Canary Islands. In October 2024, thousands of residents protested against rising housing prices, resource strain, and the loss of community spaces due to the tourism boom. The government has responded with proposed laws to regulate short-term rentals and other accommodations.
Once the draft is published, stakeholders and the public will have the opportunity to provide feedback, contributing to a balanced and effective regulatory approach. This new framework is seen as a crucial step toward maintaining the Canary Islands’ appeal as a diverse and sustainable tourist destination while safeguarding local communities and natural environments.