Plan Reside: The new Regulation on tourist apartments in Madrid 2026

Madrid is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Spain, and the rental of tourist apartments has grown exponentially in recent years. However, this boom has brought with it challenges in neighbourhood coexistence, pressure on residential housing and the need to regulate an activity that affects thousands of owners and residents.

In 2026, the city has updated its regulations, incorporating the Plan Reside, a comprehensive strategy to balance tourism and residential life.

What is the Plan Reside and how does it affect tourist apartments in Madrid?

The Plan Reside is the new roadmap of the Madrid City Council to manage the boom in tourist apartments. Unlike previous regulations, this plan does not seek to ban, but to organise and ensure that tourist activity does not displace residents or damage coexistence in neighbourhoods.

Main objectives of the Plan Reside

• Protect residential use in the neighbourhoods most affected by tourism.
• Improve coexistence between neighbours and visitors.
• Set clear limits on the proliferation of viviendas de uso turístico (VUT – tourist-use dwellings).
• Promote management and supervision of tourist activity for owners.

The Plan Reside introduces new criteria and controls, especially in the historic centre and high-demand areas.

Key changes introduced by the Plan Reside in Madrid for 2026

The 2026 regulations introduce important developments for those who rent out homes to tourists. Below is a summary of the most relevant points:

Requirements for operating a tourist apartment

• Compulsory licence: It is essential to obtain a specific licence from the City Council to operate legally as a VUT.
• Approval from the community: The community of owners must now give its consent for a dwelling to be used for tourist purposes. Without this approval, the activity can be reported and sanctioned.
• Independent access: In most cases, tourist apartments are required to have separate access from the rest of the dwellings in the building, especially in central neighbourhoods.
• Area-based restrictions: The Plan Reside establishes different levels of restriction depending on location. In central Madrid, limitations are stricter to protect the residential fabric.
• Maximum duration: If the rental exceeds 90 days per year, it is considered a professional activity and must meet additional requirements.

Penalties and consequences for non-compliance with the new Plan Reside regulations

The City Council has tightened penalties for those who operate without a licence or breach the regulations. Fines can be very high and, in serious cases, the immediate cessation of activity can be ordered. In addition, the community of neighbours can request surcharges in the common expenses and take legal action.

How does the Plan Reside affect owners of tourist apartments?

The Plan Reside represents a paradigm shift for owners. It is now essential to:

• Stay informed about the specific restrictions in each area.
• Ensure they have the necessary documentation and licences.
• Manage relations with the community of neighbours transparently.
• Comply with the requirements for guest registration and control.

What happens to tourist apartments that already had a licence?

Dwellings that already had a tourist licence in Madrid before the new regulations came into force can continue operating, although they must adapt to the new coexistence and control requirements. If problems arise with the community, they may be subject to review.

Tips to comply with the Plan Reside, the regulations and successfully manage your tourist apartment

Key steps for owners

• Apply for the municipal licence before starting to rent.
• Consult your community of owners and obtain their written approval.
• Check the requirements on access and location according to your area.
• Use digital tools for visitor registration and legal management.

Digitise management with Check-in Scan

Technology is your best ally for complying with the regulations. Solutions such as Check-in Scan allow you to register guests automatically, meet legal obligations and keep full control over your property. In this way you avoid legal problems and improve the guest experience.

Request more information and try 14 days FREE

Automate the online check-in process and make guest registration quick and easy.

Register now for free

Comply with the Plan Reside and protect your property

The new Madrid tourist apartment regulations and the Plan Reside reinforce the importance of managing your accommodation in a professional and legal way. Adapting is the only way to avoid penalties and ensure the profitability of your properties.

If you own a tourist apartment in Madrid, comply with the regulations, manage your guests safely and avoid legal problems with Check-in Scan.

Start today and focus on what really matters!