Tourists planning to explore one of the Mediterranean’s most popular islands by buggy or quad bike may soon need to take extra care. A sweeping new regulation in one area of Majorca could see them facing fines ranging from £260 to £1,300 if caught in protected zones. The municipality of Capdepera, which includes the popular resort town Cala Rajada, has introduced a draft ordinance to prohibit recreational use of quads, buggies, and similar off-road vehicles.
The proposed ban covers unsurfaced country lanes, forested agricultural land, parts of the Llevant Nature Reserve, and other environmentally sensitive zones. It also extends to any public areas not designated for motor traffic.
Local authorities across parts of Majorca are introducing bans on quads, buggies, and recreational off-road vehicles in a bid to protect fragile ecosystems, preserve biodiversity, and ease the growing strain on rural and environmentally protected areas.
During the 30-day public consultation period, both private individuals and rental firms will be invited to give their feedback but it is expected to go through, the Majorca Daily Bulletin reported.
Once enacted, violations could incur fines of up to £1,300, and authorities will have the power to immobilise vehicles posing threats to people, property, or the natural environment.
Núria Garcia, local councillor for finance, public works, and contracting, said: “This measure represents a firm step in the defence of the territory and biodiversity.
“It will preserve agricultural and forest areas, reduce tourist pressure, and guarantee the protection of natural heritage. We are committed to a model that prioritises sustainability and respect for the environment.”
Capdepera isn’t the first municipality in Majorca wanting to crack down on recreational off-road vehicles like quads and buggies. Several other towns across the island have already introduced similar restrictions in recent years in an effort to protect fragile landscapes and reduce tourist impact on rural areas.
In Alcúdia, a bylaw introduced in March 2023 prohibits these vehicles in key environmentally protected zones, including La Victoria (ANEI) and Puig de Sant Martí (AANP). Those caught violating the rules risk fines of up to around £520.
Over in Felanitx, efforts to tighten regulation began as early as July 2022, when the local opposition party Bloc per Felanitx called for restrictions on recreational vehicle use in sensitive natural areas such as Puig de Sant Salvador.
By August 2022, Manacor, Artà, and Felanitx had all moved forward with formal bylaws aimed at limiting the movement of buggies and quads through forest trails, farmland, and other ecologically significant areas. In Manacor, specific limits were imposed , including speed caps and route permissions to better manage the environmental footprint of these tours.