Tacoronte Short-Term Rental Regulation: A Guide For Airbnb Hosts

Starting a Short-Term Rental Business in Tacoronte

If you're considering starting a short-term rental business in Tacoronte, Spain using platforms like Airbnb or VRBO, it's important to be aware of the local rules and regulations. Short-term rentals are classified as "tourist households" in Spain for stays of 31 days or less, but specific regulations can vary by region and city.

In Tacoronte and the rest of the Canary Islands, short-term rentals must be registered with the relevant register of tourism, and hosts need to obtain a registration number to include in their listing. Hosts also need to sign a statement of responsibility agreeing to comply with existing regulations.

Some key requirements for short-term rentals in Spain include:

• Obtaining any necessary permits or licenses required for hosting short-term stays
• Registering your property as a tourist household
• Passing inspections and receiving approval from local authorities
• Collecting and remitting applicable tourist taxes
• Complying with safety, health, and accessibility standards

It's critical to research the specific rules in Tacoronte, as regulations can differ even from nearby cities. For example, some areas like Madrid and Barcelona have implemented additional restrictions on short-term rentals in an effort to combat housing shortages.

Before investing in a short-term rental property, contact the local planning department in Tacoronte to ask about any existing regulations as well as whether any new rules are being considered. Ask specifically about restrictions on "short-term rentals," "vacation rentals," "Airbnb," and "VRBO." Request that they email you the actual text of any relevant laws.

Also, check if any HOA rules prohibit short-term renting, as many associations have implemented minimum rental periods of 30, 90, or even 180 days. Some HOAs utilize software to detect short-term rental activity.

If Tacoronte doesn't have firm rules in place yet, consider getting involved by attending city council meetings and advocating for fair regulations. Educate local leaders on the benefits of short-term rentals for the economy and tourism.

With the explosive growth of the short-term rental industry, many cities in Spain and around the world are still figuring out how to effectively regulate the practice. While crackdowns have put some hosts out of business in certain areas, short-term rentals that comply with all local rules can still be profitable, especially in a tourist destination like Tacoronte. The key is doing thorough research upfront and staying up-to-date on any regulatory changes.

Short-Term Rental Licensing Requirement in Tacoronte

To operate a short-term rental in Tacoronte, hosts must register their property as a "tourist household" with the relevant register of tourism and obtain a registration number to include on their listing. This registration process involves submitting a certificate of occupancy, passing inspections, and receiving approval from local authorities.

After successfully completing the registration, hosts will receive a tourist license number like "A38/4810," that must be prominently displayed on the listing and other advertising. This license number assures guests that the vacation rental complies with all local regulations in Tacoronte.

Hosts must stay updated on the specific rules in Tacoronte, as they can change frequently and differ from other cities in Tenerife and the Canary Islands. For example, some areas like Santa Cruz de Tenerife have implemented additional restrictions on short-term rentals.

Failure to properly register and include the tourist license number can result in fines or removal of your listing. Platforms like Airbnb are increasingly cooperating with local authorities in Spain to ensure compliance and remove illegal listings.

In addition to registering, Tacoronte hosts must collect and remit the applicable tourist taxes. As Spain is part of the EU, online rental platforms are required to gather and report host tax information under the DAC7 directive.

So, in summary, the key requirements for short-term rentals in Tacoronte include:

1. Registering the property as a tourist household
2. Obtaining a tourist license number
3. Passing inspections and receiving approval
4. Prominently displaying the license number on listings
5. Collecting and remitting tourist taxes
6. Staying informed of any regulatory changes

Hosts can legally operate short-term rentals in by properly registering and complying with these rules, hosts can legally operate short-term rentals in Tacoronte and providing guests an authentic, local experience in this beautiful part of Tenerife. The licensing process ensures a level playing field for all hosts and protects the character of residential neighborhoods.

Required Documents for Tacoronte Short-Term Rentals

To legally operate a short-term rental in Tacoronte, hosts must gather and submit several key documents as part of the registration process. These documents help ensure the property meets all necessary standards and requirements.

One of the most important documents is the certificate of occupancy or habitation certificate (cédula de habitabilidad). This certifies that the property is suitable for residential use and meets all safety and habitability standards. If you don't have this document, you will need to obtain it before registering your short-term rental.

Another critical document is the urban report (informe urbanistico) issued by the Tacoronte municipality. This report confirms that short-term rentals are permitted at your property's location according to local zoning laws and regulations. Contact the Tacoronte urban planning department to request this report.

Additional documents you will likely need to provide include:

1. Proof of property ownership (Escritura/Copia Simple)
2. Your ID (Spanish driver's license, DNI or passport)
3. Energy efficiency certificate
4. Fire safety certificate
5. Floor plan of the property
6. Proof of insurance covering the rental activity

Once you have compiled all the necessary documents, you can submit your responsible declaration (declaración responsable) to the Cabildo Insular de Tenerife or the Canary Islands Government to officially register your short-term rental. This sworn statement affirms that you have all the required documents and your property complies with the applicable regulations.

After your declaration is accepted, you will receive your registration number to display on your listing. You must also provide certain information about your guests' stays to the police, such as having them fill out entry forms with their passport details.

While the document requirements may seem daunting, they play an important role in maintaining the safety and quality of short-term rentals in Tacoronte. By carefully gathering and submitting the necessary paperwork, you can operate your rental legally and provide guests an exceptional experience in this beautiful part of Tenerife.

Tacoronte Short-Term Rental Taxes

When operating a short-term rental in Tacoronte, it's crucial to understand and comply with the applicable tax obligations. As a host, you are responsible for collecting and remitting the relevant taxes to the appropriate authorities.

In the Canary Islands, including Tacoronte, the main tax that applies to short-term rentals is the IGIC (Impuesto General Indirecto Canario), which is the Canary Islands' equivalent of VAT. As of January 2024, the IGIC rate for short-term rentals is 7%. This means that you must charge a 7% tax on the rental amount and any additional fees, such as cleaning or pet fees.

It's important to note that there are no longer any exceptions to this rule - every short-term rental host in the Canary Islands must charge and remit IGIC. Previously, rentals under 3 months were exempt, but this is no longer the case.

In addition to IGIC, if you are a non-resident of Spain earning rental income from your Tacoronte property, you must also pay the non-resident income tax (Impuesto sobre la Renta de no Residentes or IRNR). The tax rate is 24% of your gross rental income if you are a resident of a non-EU country or 19% if you reside in an EU member state.

Even if you don't actually rent out your property, you are still required to file a non-resident tax return and pay tax on the imputed rental income, which is calculated as 2% of the property's cadastral value.

The deadlines for filing and paying non-resident taxes are:

1. January 1-20 for Q4 (October-December)
2. April 1-20 for Q1 (January-March)
3. July 1-20 for Q2 (April-June)
4. October 1-20 for Q3 (July-September)

It's highly recommended to engage a local tax professional or accountant to assist with calculating and filing your taxes to ensure full compliance. With the increasing cooperation between short-term rental booking platforms like Airbnb and the Spanish tax authorities, it's more important than ever for hosts to stay on top of their tax obligations and maintain accurate records.

By understanding the IGIC and non-resident income tax requirements for your Tacoronte short-term rental, you can avoid potential penalties and operate your business successfully. Proper tax compliance is a key responsibility of being a professional host.

Spain Wide Short-Term Rental Rules

While each autonomous community in Spain has its own specific regulations for short-term rentals, there are some general rules that apply across the country. It's important for hosts to be aware of these Spain-wide requirements in addition to the local laws.

One key rule is that all short-term rental properties must be registered with the appropriate regional authorities, and a registration number must be obtained. This number must be displayed on any advertisement or listing for the property, such as on Airbnb. Failure to properly register and include the number can result in fines.

Short-term rentals are also subject to the collection of tourist taxes in most regions of Spain. Hosts are responsible for charging and remitting this tax, which is a small percentage of the nightly rate. The exact percentage varies by location.

Safety requirements are another important consideration. Across Spain, vacation rentals must meet certain standards for things like smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and emergency information provided to guests. Regular inspections may be conducted to ensure compliance.

Record-keeping is also mandated on a national level. Hosts must collect and retain information about their guests, such as passport details, and provide this to authorities upon request. This is part of Spain's efforts to maintain security and combat illegal accommodations.

There are also widespread rules around the actual rental agreement and guest communication. Rental contracts must be provided in writing, with terms and pricing clearly stated. Complaints forms have to be made available to guests in case any issues arise during the stay.

While not a legal requirement, many regions strongly encourage hosts to have insurance covering the vacation rental activity. This protects both hosts and guests in case of accidents or damages.

It's critical for short-term rental operators to familiarize themselves with both the high-level rules that apply across Spain as well as the specific regulations in their autonomous community and city. Consulting with local officials, joining host clubs, and engaging professional services can help navigate the complex regulatory landscape and ensure full compliance.

Does Tacoronte Strictly Enforce STR Rules?

Based on discussions in real estate forums like Bigger Pockets and Reddit, it appears that Tacoronte enforces its short-term rental regulations more strictly than some other cities in Spain. Several hosts have reported receiving warning letters and fines for operating unlicensed vacation rentals in Tacoronte.

The local government has begun using software to scan Airbnb listings and collect evidence of illegal short-term rental activity before contacting hosts. This suggests a proactive approach to enforcement. Hosts are then required to either obtain the proper registration and meet all requirements or cease operations.

While some cities are still figuring out how to effectively regulate short-term rentals amidst the industry's explosive growth, Tacoronte seems to be ahead of the curve with its enforcement efforts. The consensus among hosts is that Tacoronte is not particularly Airbnb-friendly compared to more lenient tourist hotspots.

That said, based on the continued availability of Airbnb listings in Tacoronte, it's clear that some hosts still operate there despite the strict rules. But they do so at a higher risk of getting caught and penalized. The advice from other hosts is to not even attempt operating an unlicensed short-term rental in Tacoronte.

The bottom line is that Tacoronte takes its short-term rental regulations seriously and is willing to dedicate resources to enforcement. Hosts who carefully follow all the rules can operate legally, but the city is far from a short-term rental free-for-all. Investors should factor the time and costs of compliance into their business plans.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Tacoronte

If you're interested in starting a short-term rental business in Tacoronte, here are the key steps to follow:

1. Research the local regulations and obtain necessary permits. Contact the Tacoronte municipal government to understand zoning laws, registration requirements, and any specific rules for short-term rentals. You will likely need to register your property as a tourist household and obtain a license number to include on listings.
2. Choose an attractive property in a desirable location. Look for a home or apartment that will appeal to tourists, preferably close to popular attractions, beaches, restaurants, and shops. Consider amenities like air conditioning, outdoor space, and parking.
3. Furnish and equip the rental to a high standard. Invest in comfortable, stylish furniture and provide all the essentials guests expect, such as linens, kitchenware, and reliable WiFi. Make the space inviting with décor that reflects the local culture.
4. Create a detailed listing on popular vacation rental platforms. Take professional photos that showcase your rental's best features. Write an enticing description that highlights nearby attractions and amenities you offer. Be clear about rules, pricing, and cancellation policies.
5. Automate booking and payment processing. You can use a service to handle reservations, securely store booking details, and process payments. Sync your calendars across platforms to avoid double bookings.
6. Arrange for cleaning and maintenance between guests. Hire a reputable cleaning service to thoroughly clean and sanitize the rental after each stay. Have a maintenance plan to quickly address any repairs or issues that arise.
7. Provide excellent customer service to guests. Promptly respond to inquiries and booking requests. Share recommendations for local restaurants, activities, and transportation. Address any concerns quickly to ensure a positive experience and good reviews.
8. Comply with tax collection and reporting requirements. Charge the required 7% IGIC tax on all bookings and remit the taxes quarterly. Report earnings and pay income taxes as a non-resident if applicable. Consult a local tax professional for guidance.
9. Continuously improve and market your rental. Stay on top of trends in amenities and design to keep your space competitive. Encourage satisfied guests to leave reviews. Promote your listing through social media and targeted advertising to attract more bookings.
10. Consider hiring a local property manager. If you don't live nearby or want to be hands-off, engaging an experienced short-term rental management company in Tacoronte can make operations smoother. They can handle everything from marketing to maintenance to guest communication.

With careful planning, compliance with regulations, and a commitment to providing an exceptional experience for guests, you can build a successful short-term rental business in Tacoronte. The city's popularity as a tourist destination and efforts to responsibly regulate vacation rentals create a supportive environment for hosts who follow the rules and prioritize guest satisfaction.

Who to Contact in Tacoronte about Short-Term Rental Regulations and Zoning?

To get the most accurate and up-to-date information about short-term rental regulations and zoning laws in Tacoronte, it's best to go straight to the source by contacting the local government offices responsible for these matters.

Start by reaching out to the Tacoronte Municipal Planning Department (Departamento de Urbanismo del Ayuntamiento de Tacoronte). They handle issues related to urban planning, zoning, and land use. You can contact them by phone at +34 922 561 350 or by email at urbanismo@aytotacoronte.org. Request to speak with someone knowledgeable about vacation rental rules.

For questions specifically about registering your short-term rental and obtaining a license number, contact the Tacoronte Tourism Office (Oficina de Turismo de Tacoronte). Their phone number is +34 922 560 231, and email is turismo@aytotacoronte.org.

It's also a good idea to contact the Cabildo Insular de Tenerife, the island's governing body. They have a department dedicated to tourism that may be able to provide additional guidance. You can reach them by calling +34 901 501 901 or emailing turismo@tenerife.es.

If you have trouble getting answers or need further clarification, consider hiring a local lawyer who specializes in real estate and tourism law. They can help you navigate the complexities of short-term rental regulations. The Tenerife Bar Association (Colegio de Abogados de Santa Cruz de Tenerife) can provide referrals. Contact them at +34 922 275 020 or dptso@icatf.es.

Lastly, connect with other short-term rental owners and property managers in Tacoronte through online forums and local meetup groups. Hearing first-hand experiences and advice from those who have gone through the process can be invaluable. Check out the Tenerife Homeowners Association (Asociación de Propietarios de Viviendas Vacacionales de Tenerife or APVVT) at apvvt@apvvt.com.

By contacting these key organizations and experts, you can gather all the information you need to ensure your short-term rental in Tacoronte is fully compliant with local regulations. It's better to ask questions upfront than risk fines or issues down the road. With some due diligence, you can set up your rental for success.

What Do Airbnb Hosts in Tacoronte on Reddit and Bigger Pockets Think about Local Regulations?

To get a sense of how short-term rental hosts in Tacoronte feel about the local regulations, I searched through discussions on Reddit and Bigger Pockets. Here are a few relevant threads I found:

Reddit /r/AirBnB - "Considering buying a vacation rental in Tacoronte - advice?"

In this thread, a potential investor asks for input on purchasing a property to use as a short-term rental in Tacoronte. Several hosts chime in, noting that while Tacoronte is a desirable tourist destination, the local government has been cracking down more on unlicensed rentals lately. One host says, "The rules here are strict but fair. Get registered, pay your taxes, and you'll be fine." Another mentions, "It's not like the Wild West days. Tacoronte is serious about compliance now."

Bigger Pockets Forum - "Tacoronte rental permit denied"

Here, a host vents frustration about the city rejecting his application for a vacation rental permit. Other hosts commiserate, with one saying, "I feel your pain. They denied me at first, too, because of some technical issues with my floor plan. Keep at it and make sure everything is perfect." Several mention that Tacoronte is very particular about only approving rentals that meet every requirement to the letter.

Reddit /r/TacoronteTravel - "How do locals feel about Airbnb?"

In this discussion, a traveler asks if short-term vacation rentals are controversial among Tacoronte residents. Responses from hosts suggest that while some locals are concerned about the impact on housing prices, the government has found a middle ground with firm regulation. One host explains, "As long as you're licensed and a good neighbor, people here are fine with it. The rules keep things under control."

Bigger Pockets Forum - "Advice for new Tacoronte host"

A new host asks for tips on starting a short-term rental in Tacoronte. The top reply starts with "Step 1: Make sure you can comply with all the licensing requirements" and goes on to detail the importance of closely following local laws. Another host adds, "It's a lot of red tape compared to some places, but the demand is there if you can make it through the process."

The overall sentiment seems to be that while Tacoronte's short-term rental regulations are strict, hosts who make an effort to fully comply find it a rewarding place to operate. The city appears to balance capturing the benefits of vacation rentals and mitigating the potential downsides through firm enforcement. Hosts appreciate that the "wild west" days are over and seem confident that playing by the rules is the best approach in Tacoronte.

Disclaimer: While we here at BNBCalc strive to keep all of our city regulation guides updated and accurate with all the latest local laws, we still do not suggest using them as your sole or primary source for local regulations. We also do not recommend you rely on the third-party sources we link to or reference, and we are not responsible for any of the information on these third-party sites. These guides are for entertainment purposes only and only provide basic information and should not be considered as legal advice.

We highly recommend directly contacting the responsible parties for each city and hearing what their officials have to say. Ultimately, it's your responsibility as an investor to ensure you fully comply with the local laws, and it's best to speak with professionals before making an investment decision.