New Regulations Proposed for Horse-Drawn Carriages in Marbella
The Marbella town hall has put forth new rules and regulations for horse-drawn carriages, a popular tourist attraction in the Costa del Sol town. The authorities are planning to phase out the activity over the next two decades, but the new by-law is designed to ensure the welfare of the animals in the meantime. This includes prohibiting whipping, mandating rest periods, and requiring regular veterinary care.
Improving Working Conditions and Animal Welfare
The municipal spokesperson, Félix Romero, stated that the new regulation is a crucial step in modernising the horse carriage service. The aim is to enhance the working conditions of the professionals in the sector, ensure animal welfare, and improve the experience for users. The regulation includes a new section that bans whipping or any other form of punishment that could harm the horses.
Rest Periods and Health Requirements
The by-law will also require a rest period of at least two hours for every eight-hour workday. Another aspect of the regulation is the requirement for the horses to be in a clean and healthy state. They must be fed and hydrated during service. The age of the horses in service should be between 4 and 18, although horses up to 23 can continue to provide the service, provided they undergo regular sanitary and technical checks.
Regulatory Compliance and Penalties
Every horse carriage operator will need to present an official veterinary certificate at least every six months or when required for inspection. All service providers must also be registered in the Registro General de Explotaciones Ganaderas (REGA). Non-compliance with these regulations will result in penalties classified as “very serious”.
Protection Against Adverse Weather
The municipality will also provide stations equipped with protection against adverse weather. Horse-drawn carriages are considered a tourist attraction and are classified as a “service of public interest”, subject to municipal licensing. The new permits will be valid for a maximum of twenty years.
Regularisation and Updating of Conditions
Licence holders will have one year from the approval of this ordinance to regularise and update the conditions they offer. Romero emphasised the importance of the by-law in supporting the touristic value of the activity and preventing animal welfare neglect.
New Pricing for Rides
According to the new regulations, the price for a half-hour ride will be 30 euros, 50 for one-hour rides and 60 per hour for event or celebration hires. The by-law, which was submitted on Monday, will be on public display for 30 days for anyone who wants to review it and provide feedback.
