A mixed approach to the heterogeneity of the short-term rentals’ regulation in Spain

Abstract

This paper aims to analyse the current situation of STRs and their regulation in Spain in order to determine whether the restrictions applied contributed to alleviating the volume of STRs. For this purpose, a database from the experimental statistics on tourist accommodation on houses provided by the National Institute of Statistics of Spain and the regional and municipal regulations on STRs have been used. The upward or downward trends of STRs have been examined and linked to the existing regulation. Then, the municipalities were classified according to the type of regulatory measure: laissez-faire, limitation or prohibition. The trend and the problems linked to STRs lead us to believe that more and more municipalities will opt to regulate the activity, seeking a balance between the economic benefit and the social impact of tourism.