A rural accommodation is a type of lodging located in rural areas. They are usually situated in natural surroundings and feature an architectural style that respects and reflects the local area where they are found.
Additionally, in most cases, they offer guests activities that complement the lodging experience. For example, hiking trails, typical cuisine, artisanal workshops, etc.
It contributes to the economic and social development of rural areas, which are sometimes in a severe state of depopulation.
Why is it so complex to open an establishment of this type?
The regulations to be applied are very stringent. In general terms, the legislation is very different and much more restrictive compared to the case of accommodations on urban land.
What does the Generalitat Valenciana dictate regarding rural tourist licence?
According to this regional legislation, rural accommodation will be classified into the following categories:
- Rural house.
- Rural hotel.
- Blocks and complexes of rural apartments.
- Rural tourist home.
Difference Between Rural House and Rural Tourist home
Although both types of accommodation are located in rural settings and may appear similar, there are differences between them:
- Different legislation and registration with the Conselleria: both must meet specific regulatory requirements that are distinct from each other. And although they must be registered with the Conselleria, this management is also different.
- Occupancy rate: a rural tourist dwelling can only be rented in its entirety. However, a rural house can be rented partially or in its entirety.
- Additional services: a rural house usually offers additional services such as meals (breakfast, half-board, etc.), rural activities, etc.
- Occupancy rate: rural houses are considered a business activity, so their income must be taxed as earnings from economic activities. On the other hand, rural tourist dwellings can be considered as income from real estate capital.
How to obtain a rural vacation license for tourist use housing
Depending on the required modality, the license will be obtained in different ways, increasing in difficulty and requirements.
Within these modalities, we will explain the process for rural tourist use housing.
HABITATION CERTIFICATE SPAIN
Firstly, it must be certified that the property is habitable.
This is done through the certificate of habitability or occupancy. This technical document must be updated if it is more than 10 years old.
"INFORME COMPATIBILIDAD" FOR RURAL VACATION LICENSE
Subsequently, the City Council of the locality where it is located must grant the corresponding permit to designate it as a tourist property.
Technically, this permit is known as an urban compatibility report.
OBTAIN A DIC OR EXEMPTION
When the rural housing subject to the license is located in a rural area as well as on rustic land, the Regional Ministry requires another technical report.
This report is called the Declaration of Community Interest.
Without delving into too many technical details, it “authorizes” rustic land for tourist use.
As with any law, there are exemptions in its application, which must be properly justified.
REGISTER FOR RURAL TOURIST LICENSE GVA
Once the above steps are completed, the Responsible Tourism Declaration of the GVA can be formalized.
In this way, the desired tourist license will be granted.
You can register at the following link.
OBTAINING AN ACTIVITY RURAL TOURIST LICENCE
Finally, depending on the City Council, an opening license for a tourism activity may need to be obtained.
Price of rural tourist rental licence
The price of this license varies depending on the type of accommodation.
For the simplest case, a rural tourist home, the average price (excluding urban fees which depend on each City Council) starts from 300 euros.