Housing activists in Lisbon are mobilizing to address the growing concern over the impact of short-term tourist rentals on local communities. With a petition signed already by more than 9,000 residents, they are calling for a binding referendum to ban tourist lets in residential blocks, aiming to reclaim their neighborhoods from the pressures of tourism.

The Movement for a Housing Referendum has been active since early 2023, gathering support from residents who feel the strain of rising housing costs and the influx of tourists. The petition will be presented to the head of the municipal assembly, marking a significant step in their campaign.

Lisbon has seen a boom in tourism over the past decade, with record numbers of visitors contributing to a surge in short-term rentals. According to various studies, over 60% of housing in the historic Santa Maria Maior district is now used for holiday rentals. This shift has led to significant increases in rent and property prices with rents increasing by by 94% since 2015.

These statistics highlight the challenges faced by residents, many of whom feel isolated in their own neighborhoods as they contend with a constant flow of tourists.

If the municipal assembly approves the referendum, the proposed questions will be vetted by the courts for constitutional compliance. Should the referendum proceed, it could lead to a binding resolution to phase out tourist flats within six months and prevent future registrations in residential buildings.