Speaking to Lusa, the mayor of Évora, Carlos Pinto de Sá (CDU), indicated that the public consultation on the proposed regulation of the tourist tax was published on the 6th in the Official Gazette, and will continue until the 17th of February.

“During this period, anyone who wants to contribute to improving or changing the regulations may do so under the terms determined by law, sending their duly substantiated proposals to the municipality,” he said.

The proposed regulation that is under public consultation, consulted by Lusa, foresees the charging of 1.50 euros per guest and per night in tourist establishments in the municipality, up to a maximum of three consecutive nights.

In statements to Lusa, the mayor highlighted that the proposed cost took into account an economic study on the subject, considering that “it is a very reasonable amount”, taking into account “what has been launched in tourist taxes in the country”.

“However, there are also a number of exemptions, such as students who come to study in Évora and have to use hotel units or people with a certain degree of disability who are passing through Évora”, he stressed.

Noting that the municipality of Évora recorded almost 700 thousand overnight stays in 2023, Pinto de Sá highlighted that “the exemptions will reduce the amount” to be collected by the council, which should be between “500 thousand and 600 thousand euros” per year.

“In addition, there are also limits on the application of the fee”, referring to the charging of up to a maximum of three consecutive nights, to “encourage the possibility of people staying longer” in the municipality, which also reduces revenue, he highlighted.

The mayor explained that, after the public consultation, the report with the contributions will be discussed at a council meeting and the approved changes will be introduced into the proposed regulations, which will have to be voted on at the municipal assembly.

“The final phase” of the process will take place in February, but “it will depend on the date of the municipal assembly meeting,” he predicted, estimating that preparations for the application of the tax will be made in March and, “in April or May, if approved, it will come into effect.”