Calheta municipality proposes new tourist tax in Azores

The municipality of Calheta, located on the island of São Jorge in the Azores, has launched a public consultation for a proposed tourist tax. The regulation, approved by the municipal executive on October 22, suggests a fee of two euros per guest per night at tourist accommodation establishments.

The tax would be applied to each overnight stay for a maximum of three consecutive nights, resulting in a total charge of six euros per guest. The municipality aims to use the revenue to offset the pressure that increasing visitor numbers place on public infrastructure, including sanitation, waste management, urban cleaning, and the maintenance of built heritage.

Specifically, funds are intended to be allocated to the Municipal Fund for the Protection of Fajãs and Sustainability. This fund will support the maintenance of pedestrian paths and access to the fajãs, biodiversity conservation within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and the promotion of local cultural and sporting events.