The municipal administration of San Bartolomé de Tirajana has published the final guidelines that will govern public spaces during the 2026 San Fernando Festival. The document, released this Wednesday in the Official Gazette of the Province, establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework that prioritizes technical expertise and civil liability over the mere occupation of space. This administrative move aims to professionalize the management of temporary sales points—beach bars, food trucks, and taverns—in a context of increasingly stringent regulations regarding public safety and health in the southern tourist areas.
The regulations impose rigorous controls on technical documentation. Successful bidders must not only demonstrate they are up-to-date with their tax and social security payments, but also face a detailed inspection of their electrical installations and fire protection systems. The city council requires low-voltage projects prepared by qualified professionals and current fire extinguisher certifications, making the validity of the license contingent upon strict compliance with these requirements. This "zero tolerance" policy toward technical deficiencies aims to raise safety standards at large-scale events, protecting the municipality's reputation as a safe destination.
One of the most innovative aspects of the new regulations is the introduction of criteria for social sensitivity and accessibility. The City Council has mandated a "Quiet Afternoon," during which all sound stimuli, including music and public address announcements, will be eliminated. This measure is specifically aimed at the inclusion of people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other sensory sensitivities, aligning the local festivities with the goals of sustainable development and social justice. Furthermore, a "Children's Day" with 50% off prices has been established, guaranteeing democratic access to leisure activities.
Noise management measures apply throughout the entire duration of the festivities. Sound levels may not exceed 85 dBA in general, and will be drastically reduced to 65 dBA after 22:00 PM. Failure to comply with these limits, measured at a distance of five meters, will result in the immediate closure of the stall. These regulations address the need to balance the lively atmosphere of the festival with the right to rest of residents and tourists staying in the areas adjacent to Avenida de Tejeda and Plaza de San Fernando.
The pricing structure for occupying public space reflects the value of the area in southern Gran Canaria. The fee has been set at €110 per linear meter for beach bars and restaurants, with progressive surcharges based on the number of tables on the terrace, which can reach an additional €400 for large establishments. Smaller stalls, such as those selling sweets or fritters, will be charged €90 per linear meter.
In a move towards energy efficiency, the City Council will cover the cost of installing electric generators, although the successful bidders will be responsible for the fuel costs. In return, the administration is offering a 50% discount on the occupancy fee to those who comply with this requirement of direct payment to the electricity supplier. This approach aims to prevent illegal connections and guarantee a stable and certified electrical grid during the ten days of the event, from May 21st to 31st.
The decree signed by Councilor Yilenia Vega Macías leaves no room for ambiguity regarding the consequences of non-compliance. Very serious infractions, including disobeying municipal orders or selling products in poor condition, can result in fines of up to €2.000 and the immediate revocation of the license without the right to compensation. Furthermore, the use of glass containers is strictly prohibited, requiring that all drinks be served in plastic containers to prevent public order incidents.
The requirement for liability insurance, which must cover the entire occupancy period including assembly and dismantling days, transfers the operational risk directly to the private sector. With these specifications, San Bartolomé de Tirajana aims to ensure that the San Fernando festivities run like clockwork, where tradition is not at odds with modern, transparent, and, above all, safe administrative management.
