Barcelona, one of Europe’s top destinations for al fresco dining, is making a bold environmental move that could change the city’s dining scene.
Starting January 1, 2025, gas-powered patio heaters will be banned to reduce carbon emissions, leaving many restaurateurs concerned about losing customers during the winter months.
The decision comes after years of debate between the city council and the hospitality sector. While the measure was initially introduced in 2018, a phased approach allowed businesses time to adapt.
Under the new rules, only electric heaters with a capacity no greater than 150W/m² will be permitted during the winter season, from November 1 to April 30.
Barcelona’s move follows similar measures in France, where heated outdoor seating areas are already prohibited.
In contrast, Madrid avoided a similar ban after a local court ruled last year that there was insufficient evidence linking patio heaters to global warming.
The heater ban is part of a broader push to address sustainability and overtourism in Barcelona.
Last July, locals protested overtourism by spraying diners with water while chanting, “Barcelona is not for sale” and “Tourists go home.” Earlier in 2024, the city announced plans to phase out short-term tourist flat licenses by 2028.
Barcelona’s efforts align with other European tourist hotspots taking steps to curb overtourism and environmental strain.
Mallorca residents have blocked beaches, Venice and Santorini have implemented visitor taxes, and Prague has banned organized pub crawls.
Spain has also introduced strict travel rules, requiring hotels and agencies to collect extensive personal data from tourists.
As Barcelona enforces its gas heater ban, the city is setting an example of balancing sustainability with its role as a global tourism hub. How businesses and visitors adapt remains to be seen.
