Funchal approves new regulations for short-term holiday rentals

Thursday, 19 March 2026AI summary
Funchal approves new regulations for short-term holiday rentals
Photo: ANTÓNIO COTRIM/LUSA

The Funchal City Council (Câmara Municipal do Funchal) has approved new regulations for short-term rentals (Alojamento Local or AL) to prioritize permanent housing for residents. New license applications remain suspended until July while the city implements these rules to manage the impact of the 3,600 existing units. Property owners and those seeking housing in the Madeiran capital should be aware of these tightening restrictions.

Context & Explainers

Local accommodation (alojamento local) means short-term tourist rentals—private apartments, houses or rooms rented for days or weeks—that must be registered and licensed with municipal authorities. Municipalities can suspend or cancel licences (Lisbon cancelled about 6,700 licences in early 2026), so travellers and hosts should check a listing's registration and local rules before booking or offering stays.

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