British homeowners in the Canary Islands are being fined £2,000 for not adhering to local laws that mandate the rental of their properties to tourists. This regulation specifically affected individuals in Gran Canaria who opted to use their homes for personal stays over short-term rentals aimed at visitors. The enforcement of these fines has generated considerable unrest among British property owners, with some, like John Hefferman, contemplating selling their properties due to the restrictions on their use.

Canarias 7, a regional news outlet, covered the story, highlighting the dismay and frustration of these homeowners. The law in question, tying back to the Tourism Law of 2013, is at the center of a broader debate over property rights, the impacts of tourism on local communities, and the rising tensions between permanent residents and tourists. These tensions have been illustrated through protests by homeowners in Gran Canaria in September, as well as the appearance of anti-tourist graffiti in Tenerife, where tourism numbers have shattered records in 2023.

The issue reflects a growing conflict over how the Canary Islands, known for their appeal to tourists, balance the influx of visitors with the quality of life for permanent residents and second-home owners.