The initiative to regularize constructions with urban development irregularities in rural land rustic landwhich began as a decree in June 2024 and was transformed into law in December of the same year, seems not to have awakened the expected interest in Ibiza. According to data from the Association of Architects of the Pitiusas, so far only 60 projects have been approved in Ibiza, a number that contrasts with the expectations generated when the measure was promoted.
From decree to law with added flexibilities
The initial framework of the decree, which sought to provide a solution to decades of rural construction irregularities, underwent a significant transformation when it became law in December 2024. This new regulation introduced changes designed to make the legalization process more accessible, such as reducing administrative requirements and expanding the range of eligible constructions, as long as the urbanistic infractions were prescribed.The president of the Association of Architects of the Pitiusas, Carmen Navas-Parejo, has pointed out, in communication with Radio Ibiza, that many owners in Ibiza have shown interest through previous studies, but the high economic cost is slowing down the progress of many projects. In Formentera, on the other hand, the Consell insular has not yet approved the implementation of this law, leaving the owners of that island out of the scope of the process.
Costs and economic challenges
Regularizing a property on rural land is not a simple or inexpensive procedure. The owners must pay an economic consideration to the municipalities of between 10 and 15% of the value of the property. In addition, they must assume the payment of municipal fees, taxes and the necessary investment to adapt the building to environmental requirements in terms of water and energy efficiency. . “El proceso es complejo y costoso”, explica Navas-Parejo. Esto ha llevado a que algunos propietarios abandonen sus intentos tras calcular la inversión requerida. Estas cifras, combinadas con las medidas de inspección que se prometieron al inicio del programa, generan un entorno poco atractivo para muchos afectados.
Legal and political context
The road to regularization also faces legal challenges. This week, the PSOE filed a lawsuit before the Contentious-Administrative Court, requesting the precautionary suspension of the law. The party argues that the regulation could encourage uncontrolled development in rural areas, compromising the sustainability and territorial balance of the island.
