Following the regulation of holiday rentals, the Ministry of Tourism of the Canary Islands has focused on organizing outdoor tourist establishments, such as motorhomes and campers. Until now, the archipelago lacked specific regulations, forcing reliance on state legislation, a situation deemed "hard to understand" given the importance of tourism in the region and the notable evolution of this accommodation type.
The regulation, sent to the Consultative Council, acknowledges the "extraordinary" expansion of motorhome accommodation in the Canary Islands over the last decade. This activity has developed outside of administrative planning and management, causing "territorial impacts and legal uncertainty," as well as "inconveniences and inadequate facilities" for users.
To protect natural and environmental resources, the decree explicitly prohibits all forms of free or non-legalized camping for tourist purposes. Free camping is defined as any activity involving staying or overnighting outdoors, outside regulated establishments, using tents, caravans, motorhomes, or other shelters, without authorization or right of use over the land.
The stopping or parking of motorhomes or similar vehicles in authorized areas of urban or interurban public roads will not be considered camping, provided they remain on their wheels, do not use chocks, and do not discharge substances or waste. Non-compliance with the regulations will be subject to penalties according to the current Tourism Law.
The decree mandates a minimum of 12 requirements for outdoor accommodation establishments for motorhomes. These include a waste disposal point for black and grey water, separated from plot areas; showers and toilets for capacities exceeding 15 vehicles (with at least one toilet, sink, and shower per 20 plots, including hot water), and adaptations for people with reduced mobility. For areas with over 30 plots, an electric vehicle charging station will be mandatory, along with first-aid equipment, information panels in five languages, a waste collection system, internet connection, industrial washing machine, pet recreation area, and shade cover for at least 50% of the plots or picnic and barbecue areas.
