Encamp Council Unveils Strict Terrace Regulations for Uniform Urban Look

Encamp's local council presented new terrace regulations on Wednesday afternoon, with a vote scheduled for Thursday in the Consell de Comú. If approved, the rules would take effect from 1 April, targeting a uniform urban image across Encamp and Pas de la Casa while promoting coexistence between businesses and residents.

Cònsol Menor Xavier Fernàndez described the measures as central to one of three parish strategies: enhancing public spaces through urban renewal. The initiative updates 2019 regulations and responds to ongoing Avinguda Joan Martí refurbishments, including works tied to the ski station concessionaire. Businesses in Pas de la Casa, impacted by these projects, will implement changes first, likely this summer.

Councillor for Administration, Public Works and Urbanism Benjamí Rascagnères outlined three terrace categories: open setups with tables, chairs and parasols on existing pavement; those with removable platforms and railings; and fully enclosed structures with covers. All added elements must be demountable to avoid permanent alterations.

Public space occupation caps at 40% in squares and 50% on pedestrian streets. Pedestrian routes must maintain at least 1.2 metres width generally, increasing to 1.5 metres on Avinguda Joan Martí and 2 metres on Carrer Major in Pas de la Casa. No terraces will be allowed on streets under five metres wide.

Operations run from 8am to midnight daily, with exceptions for special events to curb noise. Designs require neutral, subdued colours blending with surroundings, using canvas-like parasol materials at 2.2-2.6 metres height and glass covers with no more than six-degree slopes. Advertising limits to business names on furniture and 20% of enclosed areas. Bans cover coloured or flashing lights, speakers, screens, cooking gear, fridges and menu boards.

Transition support includes authorisation guarantees and public space fee waivers: two years for open platforms, extending to five years' security and up to six years' discounts for enclosed ones—longer for early adopters. Adaptation deadlines are 2028 for platforms and 2031 for enclosures, with automatic renewals for permanent permits. Seasonal options cover May-October or November-April.

Fines are lowered for business sustainability: €300-€1,200 for minor infractions, €1,201-€1,800 for serious and €1,801-€3,000 for major ones, with clearer definitions for legal clarity.

Post-approval, the council will distribute an explanatory leaflet to affected venues. Fernàndez stressed equal conditions for all operators to elevate Encamp as a premium residential parish.