Mallorca, the popular Balearic island, is implementing drastic measures to combat its growing traffic problems and the effects of overtourism. From 2026, non-resident foreigners and Spanish nationals with a residence on Mallorca will only be allowed to own one vehicle per property. This decision by the Island Council of Mallorca is a direct response to the alarmingly high number of vehicles circulating on the island.
With 837,240 vehicles in 2024 and a total population of approximately 966,908 inhabitants (the actual population, including tourists, is even 28 percent higher), the island has reached its capacity limits. The consequences are evident: increased environmental pollution, growing traffic jams, and fierce competition for parking spaces.
The new regulation, which will be presented in June as part of a bill to restrict the entry of vehicles—including rental cars—to Mallorca, stipulates that vehicle tax must be paid for this one permitted vehicle. This measure is part of a broader strategy by Balearic President Marga Prohens, who already presented further proposals in March to curb overtourism. These include increasing the so-called “ecotax” or tourist tax, introducing a new tax for non-resident vehicles, and stricter restrictions on holiday rentals. The goal is to maintain the fragile balance between tourism and quality of life for residents and to protect the environment.
