Roquetas de Mar: New Animal Protection & Ownership Ordinance Now in Effect

Roquetas de Mar, a coastal municipality in the Almería province of Spain, has formally adopted a new ordinance focused on animal protection, welfare, and responsible pet ownership. The regulations, which came into effect on February 5, 2026, following official publication in the Provincial Official Gazette, represent a significant step towards aligning local policy with Spain’s national Law 7/2023 concerning animal rights and wellbeing.

The ordinance received initial approval from the municipal plenary last November and, after a public consultation period without any formal objections, has been definitively approved. This move underscores a growing trend across Spain to modernize animal welfare regulations, responding to increased public awareness and a rising number of households sharing their lives with companion animals. Municipalities are adapting to the new legal framework, aiming to clarify responsibilities for both pet owners and local authorities.

The new rules in Roquetas de Mar address a broad spectrum of issues, prioritizing responsible pet ownership through mandatory microchipping, health controls, and a firm stance against animal abuse and abandonment. A key component of the ordinance is the implementation of the CER method – Capture, Sterilization, and Return – for managing feral cat colonies, a practice gaining traction as a humane and effective approach to population control. The municipality is also actively promoting a “zero sacrifice” policy, restricting euthanasia to cases with clear veterinary justification.

Beyond individual animal welfare, the ordinance seeks to foster harmonious coexistence between pets and the wider community. It establishes clear guidelines for the use of public spaces, including designated dog parks and beaches where canine companions are permitted. This aims to prevent conflicts and ensure a respectful environment for all residents and visitors. The regulations are intended to facilitate the work of the Local Police and municipal teams, reducing conflicts in public spaces and promoting responsible adoption.

The ordinance’s emphasis on responsible ownership extends to practical considerations. Mandatory microchipping and health controls are reinforced, aligning with national legislation and providing a means of identifying lost animals and ensuring their wellbeing. The prohibition of mistreatment and abandonment is a central tenet, reflecting a broader societal shift towards recognizing animals as sentient beings deserving of protection.

The move by Roquetas de Mar is part of a wider pattern of regulatory updates across Spain. As reported by Mundo Perros, other municipalities like Hondarribia are also actively reviewing and updating their ordinances to comply with Law 7/2023. This legislation, passed in March 2023 and fully implemented by September 29th, aims to provide a more comprehensive framework for animal welfare and responsible pet ownership nationwide.

The updated regulations aren’t simply about imposing restrictions; they’re about clarifying rights and duties for pet owners and promoting civic coexistence. The aim is to create a clearer and more useful framework for citizens and public services, strengthening animal welfare, urban hygiene, and legal security. This includes uniform criteria regarding the use of public spaces, hygiene measures, and sterilization campaigns.

The Roquetas de Mar City Council emphasizes that the full text of the ordinance is available for public review both in the Provincial Official Gazette and on the municipal website. Citizens are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the new rules to contribute to a responsible and respectful environment for both animals and the community. The ordinance represents a commitment to ethical municipal management and a proactive approach to animal welfare in the region.

While the Spanish animal welfare law has been lauded for its intent, some aspects have drawn criticism. As noted in reports, concerns have been raised regarding the lack of specific regulations concerning hunting dogs, a point of contention for animal welfare advocates. However, the focus in Roquetas de Mar, and in many other municipalities, remains on improving the lives of companion animals and fostering a culture of responsible pet ownership.

The new ordinance also addresses limitations on leaving pets unattended. According to information circulating online, including a Facebook post, pets cannot be left alone for more than three days, with a stricter limit of one day for dogs. Keeping pets on balconies, roof terraces, or in basements is now prohibited, reflecting a growing awareness of the need for adequate living conditions for animals.