Illegal rentals face tighter checks in Seville

Seville is stepping up enforcement against Viviendas de Uso Turístico (VUT) that lack proper registration in the Andalusian Tourism Registry. City hall is running a campaign to spot and report illegal tourist rentals, while the Junta de Andalucía has removed more than 13,000 unregulated holiday rentals across the region.

The crackdown comes as anti-tourism protests have spread in the city, with graffiti reading "Airbnb out!" and reports of lockboxes being sealed shut. Officials have also flagged more than 715 non-compliant units in Seville for possible water disconnection and national authorities say Spain has removed more than 100,000 illegal listings since 2025.

Who feels the pressure

Tourists may find fewer short-term options on platforms like Airbnb, especially in central areas and other high-pressure zones. Long-term renters, expats and digital nomads are feeling the squeeze too, with higher rents and more hostility reported in residential neighborhoods.

Short stays of less than 2 months can still fall under tourist-rental rules if they’re marketed for tourist use. Local complaints have also included anti-foreigner graffiti such as "Guiris go home."

What hosts need to do now

Hosts need VUT registration through the Junta de Andalucía’s online process, along with proof of ownership, an energy certificate, liability insurance and community approval. Since April 2025, short-term rentals have needed a 3/5 majority from the building community and ads must show the license number.

Fines can reach €600,000 and unregistered properties can lose their license. Guests also must be registered with police within 24 hours. Read our full Spain guide for the complete picture.