British tourists in Ibiza could face £85,000 fines for attending illegal parties

UK tourists heading to Ibiza and Majorca this year could face fines of up to €85,000 if they are found attending illegal parties, according to a warning from the British Embassy in Spain. 

The move is part of a wider clampdown on what have been described as “irregular commercially-promoted parties” unveiled by Mercedes Garrido, Balearic Councillor for the Presidency, and Vincent Mari, President for the Council of Ibiza, citing a number of serious accidents that have occurred after illegal events, which have significantly grown in numbers on the two Balearic Islands since the start of the pandemic.

The new regulations also mean property owners that allow such events to take place could be charged between €100,000 and €300,000, and a proportion of that cost must be passed on to attendees. 

“There have been a number of serious accidents involving people attending irregular commercially-promoted parties in villas and private homes on the islands of Ibiza and Majorca,” said a spokesperson for the British Embassy. “Licensed clubs and bars are required to meet safety and security standards, including emergency exits and capacity limits, and to have trained licensed security staff. Irregular commercial parties may not meet these standards.”

Advice on partying in the Balearics direct from the British Government reads: “You should take care of your belongings, ensure you know where emergency exits are located and not take unnecessary risks. Heavy fines may be imposed by local authorities to anyone attending irregular commercial parties.”

Earlier this month, Ibiza announced new restrictions on the sale of alcohol in a bid to curb problem drinking on the island.