El Ayuntamiento de Palma aprueba una ordenanza cívica que permite al final pernoctar en caravanas

The Palma City Council has finalised a civic ordinance that modifies the regulatory framework for caravans and motorhomes within the city. Drafted by the municipal government and reported by elDiario.es, the measure reflects extensive consultation with local associations and residents. It aims to balance the needs of vulnerable people living in caravans with broader urban planning and sustainability goals.

The municipal study identified 156 caravans and motorhomes across Palma, both occupied and vacant. Specific counts include: 24 vehicles in Es Carnatge and Ciudad Jardín; 60 vehicles housing 36 people in the Son Hugo car park (five minors); 51 caravans with 23 occupants in Son Güells (two minors); and 21 empty caravans in Son Dameto. Overall, 43 % of occupants are single men, 21 % single women, 21 % adult couples, and 15 % families with children; 61 % are registered residents of Palma.

The ordinance eliminates fines for people in vulnerable situations who live in caravans. It introduces restrictions such as a maximum ten‑day stay at a single location, bans on external extensions, noise, and odours, and limits on parking duration. Vehicles used for tourism are subject to enforcement actions, with 150 tourist caravans earmarked for removal from public spaces. Additionally, 5 % of caravans and 40 % of maritime trailers that arrived last year remain on the island, amounting to roughly 200 vehicles.

Since the ordinance’s adoption, the council reports having assisted 24 % of identified occupants, offering case‑by‑case support through Social Services and the Local Police. The initiative underscores a commitment to addressing social exclusion without imposing economic penalties on the most vulnerable.

By formalising the status of caravan dwellers and integrating them into the city’s housing strategy, Palma contributes to sustainable urban living solutions. The ordinance’s emphasis on regulated, short‑term occupancy and the removal of non‑resident tourist caravans aligns with broader European efforts to reduce informal settlements and promote environmentally responsible habitation.

The ordinance will be voted on in the upcoming council plenary session and will take effect upon publication in the Boletín Oficial de Baleares (BOIB). Certain provisions, such as the increased maximum group size for guided tours (now 35 people) and the prohibition of megaphones, will become operative on 1 January 2026.

The new rules also address ancillary issues: guided tours with vehicles are restricted unless authorised; bike and segway tours are limited to four participants plus a guide; street musicians must obtain proper authorisation; and food‑to‑go outlets are required to maintain cleanliness within a 25‑metre radius. Alcohol‑related offences by minors may be substituted with educational measures where legally permissible.