Regulation of short-term rentals in Mexico and Dominican Rep

Authorities in Mexico and the Dominican Republic are advancing stricter regulations for the short-term vacation rental market to address competition with traditional hotels and ensure fiscal compliance.

In Mexico, specifically within the state of Quintana Roo, authorities are implementing new measures to organize digital rental platforms. A special program involving municipalities and tourism sector representatives is being developed to establish common criteria for service operations. This initiative utilizes a territorial analysis of 18 variables to determine appropriate operating zones, aiming to ensure tourist service availability without imposing discriminatory restrictions.

In Playa del Carmen, municipal authorities are preparing to launch a dedicated digital application to facilitate compliance. This tool is designed to allow property owners to manage requirements, such as operating licenses and environmental sanitation fees, remotely. The platform aims to register between 14,000 and 16,000 units, incorporating owners of apartments, condos, and private rooms into the existing regulatory and fiscal framework.

In the Dominican Republic, where short-stay properties were reported to reach approximately 56,973 units by the end of 2025, pressure to regulate continues to grow. Discussions involve the Dominican Association of Short Rentals (Adoreco) and platforms like Airbnb, which has expressed support for a registry to foster transparency. Debates persist regarding whether regulation should be enacted through national legislation or tourism ministry resolutions.