Lisbon Votes Today on Local Accommodation Referendum

The Lisbon Municipal Assembly (AML) is set to vote today on a proposal for a local referendum regarding the use of private residential properties as short-term accommodations. What’s at stake, and what happens next if the vote is approved?

What’s at Stake in the Referendum?

The local referendum aims to halt the use of private residential units in Lisbon for short-term rentals (AL). This initiative is driven by the Movement for Housing Referendum (MRH), which claims to be non-partisan.

A total of 11,000 signatures were gathered for the proposal submitted to the AML, with 6,600 of those from registered voters in Lisbon, surpassing the legal requirement of 5,000 signatures. This collection process began in November 2023, nearly a year after the movement was launched in late 2022.

What Questions Will Be Asked in the Referendum?

The first question in the referendum proposal is: “Do you agree to amend the Municipal Regulation of Local Accommodation to require the Lisbon City Council to cancel registered short-term rentals in residential properties within 180 days?” The second question is: “Do you agree to amend the Municipal Regulation of Local Accommodation to prohibit short-term rentals in residential properties?” These are the key issues the MRH wants included on the ballots.

What Happens if the Assembly Approves the Referendum?

If the assembly approves the referendum, it will need to be sent to the Constitutional Court for a preventive review of its legality. Only after this validation can the referendum date be set, which is expected to occur within 40 to 60 days. While there may be delays and bureaucratic challenges, MRH leaders are hopeful for the referendum to take place in Spring 2025.

Are the Referendum Results Binding?

According to the Local Referendum Legal Regime, the results of the referendum are binding on local authorities. However, the validity of the referendum depends on more than 50% of registered voters participating. All registered voters in the relevant area are eligible to vote.

What Must Local Authorities Do Next?

If the majority votes “yes,” the competent local authority must approve the corresponding action within 60 days. The law states that the decision made in accordance with the referendum results cannot be revoked or altered during the same mandate. Conversely, if the majority votes “no,” any proposals that would continue the previous situation cannot be renewed during the same mandate.

What Exactly is a Local Referendum?

A local referendum can occur in any local authority, excluding areas where the assembly is replaced by a plenary of citizen voters. Voters must be registered in the relevant territorial area. This type of referendum can only address issues of significant local interest, which must be decided by municipal or parish authorities.

By Samuel Alemão