In response to mounting pressure from Spanish authorities, Airbnb is taking bold action to regulate illegal short-term rentals in the Canary Islands. The move comes amid widespread calls for tighter tourism controls and housing reforms across popular Spanish destinations. As a result, thousands of unlicensed Airbnb properties could be removed, significantly reshaping the travel and property rental landscape for hosts and holidaymakers alike.

Why the Crackdown is Happening

Spain has long been a magnet for global tourists, and regions like the Canary Islands are particularly popular for sun-seekers and digital nomads alike. However, this surge in tourism has led to a housing crisis, with local residents often priced out of long-term rentals due to the lucrative nature of short-term listings. In response, governments across Spain have begun pushing for a clampdown on unregistered and non-compliant rentals.

In the Canary Islands, only 30% of Airbnb’s listings are estimated to be legally registered, triggering calls for stricter enforcement. As part of a cooperation agreement with regional Spanish authorities, Airbnb has now committed to removing any listings that fail to include official registration numbers — a key indicator that a property complies with local regulations.

This proactive step aims to bring Airbnb into greater alignment with local housing policies and reduce the growing imbalance between tourism and resident needs.

The Coalition Behind the Change

Several regions in Spain have already introduced limits on the number of days properties can be rented out to tourists. The city of Barcelona, for instance, has implemented harsh penalties for property owners who breach regulations. Now, the Canary Islands are following in these footsteps, backed by a strong coalition of lawmakers.

The chair of the regional government, Fernando Clavijo, announced that the crackdown is designed to relieve pressure on the housing market and ensure responsible tourism. The government plans to work hand-in-hand with platforms like Airbnb to enforce legal compliance while also enabling the sustainable development of the tourism sector.

Impact on Hosts and Tourists

For existing hosts with unregistered properties in the Canary Islands, this news signals a major shift. Airbnb’s cooperation means that compliance is no longer optional — it’s essential. Hosts must ensure their listings include valid registration numbers or face removal from the platform.

For tourists, the change could lead to reduced availability and potentially higher prices, at least temporarily. However, it also promises a safer and more transparent booking experience by ensuring all listings meet the required legal and safety standards.

Airbnb’s Response and Future Compliance

Airbnb has welcomed the Canary Islands’ push for greater clarity and accountability in short-term rentals. The company has pledged to provide users with streamlined options for entering their legal registration numbers and is developing background systems to cross-reference this data with local government databases.

This isn’t the first time Airbnb has adjusted its model to meet growing regulation. In London, for instance, the platform enforces a 90-day rule to curb excessive short-term letting. These policy adjustments highlight Airbnb’s willingness to evolve in harmony with regional laws while maintaining flexibility for hosts.

What UK Hosts Can Learn From This

The news from Spain should serve as a reminder to UK hosts about the importance of compliance and professional property management. Cities including London and Oxford already have specific Airbnb restrictions, and more UK councils are exploring ways to regulate holiday rentals. Being proactive, transparent, and professional is key to long-term hosting success.

If you’re managing rental properties in the UK and want to stay ahead of the curve, our guides such as choosing an Airbnb management company and how to manage Airbnb properties offer actionable insights. These articles provide invaluable tools to navigate the changing landscape of short-term letting.

Looking Ahead: A More Regulated Future for Airbnb

The Airbnb model is maturing. What started as a peer-to-peer service for casual stays is increasingly becoming a professionalised, regulated industry. While this may mean more hurdles for property owners, it also ensures a better experience for guests and stronger relationships with local communities.

As experts in Airbnb management in London and other top UK cities, we at Moa & Kin keep a close eye on both national and international trends. Our experience shows that hosts who embrace compliance, utilise expert support, and offer high-quality guest experiences are the ones who thrive the longest.

Final Thoughts

The removal of illegal Airbnb listings in the Canary Islands is a watershed moment in the relationship between governments, hosts, and global travel platforms. As local and national authorities worldwide rethink how they manage tourism and housing, platforms like Airbnb will need to continuously adapt.

For hosts everywhere, staying informed, legal, and professional isn’t just a smart move — it’s the key to sustainable success. Whether you’re listing in Tenerife, London, or Bristol, planning ahead and understanding local compliance rules is crucial.