Want to operate your Airbnb in Cancun? Discover how to get the RETUR-Q and other requirements

The state of Quintana Roo, home to tourist destinations like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum, has implemented specific regulations for vacation rentals. One of the most important for ensuring compliance with tourism regulations is validation through RETUR-Q. If you own a short-term rental property, it’s essential to be aware of these regulations and ensure that your property meets all legal requirements.

NOTE: This is not legal advice, it’s just a guide to help you understand the regulations in Quintana Roo. Please ask a professional.

In Quintana Roo, vacation rental regulations are outlined in its Tourism Law. One of the most important aspects of this law is the requirement that hosts and platforms must register with the State Tourism Registry (RETUR-Q).

***At Naya Homes we are commited with compliance of local regulations. That’s why we have the corresponding registration at RETUR-Q and we ensure all of our properties in Quintana Roo meet the highest standards in security and legality.

What is RETUR-Q?

The State Tourism Registry of Quintana Roo (RETUR-Q) is a key tool implemented by the state government to regulate and oversee tourism activity in the region. This registry aims to provide an official database of all tourism service providers, including hosts of vacation rental properties, like those listed on platforms such as Airbnb or Booking.com.

Main features of ReturQ:

1. Mandatory Registration: All hosts who wish to offer their properties for vacation rental in Quintana Roo must register with RETUR-Q. This includes individual property owners, vacation rental management companies, as well as hotels, motels, hostels, and other lodging establishments or homes, campsites, RV parks, cultural and recreational centers that provide services to tourists.
   
   
2. Annual Update: Registration is not a one-time process. Hosts must ensure that their information in RETUR-Q is updated each year. Failure to do so may result in penalties.
   
   
3. Government Oversight: Through this registry, state authorities can more effectively monitor the supply of tourist accommodations, ensuring that all properties meet standards for quality, safety, and legality.
   
   
4. Social and fiscal responsibility: RETUR-Q also aims to ensure that hosts fulfill their tax obligations and respect the rights of tourists. Additionally, it allows authorities to monitor and regulate the number of tourists, especially in high-traffic areas like Cancun and Playa del Carmen.
   
   
5. Access to certifications and benefits: Hosts registered with RETUR-Q can access certification programs that provide additional benefits, such as the opportunity to be promoted through the state’s official tourism channels, thus increasing the visibility of their properties.
   
   

Benefits of being registered with RETUR-Q:

In addition to ensuring that your property operates legally, having a RETUR-Q validation certificate positions you as a responsible host committed to best practices. It also offers benefits that can enhance your visibility and reputation in the tourism market, such as increased guest trust and legal protection.

State operating license

AIn addition to RETUR-Q, hosts must obtain a state operating license through the Tax Administration Service of Quintana Roo (SATQ). This license is essential for operating legally and avoiding penalties.

Civil Protection requirements

Your property must also comply with the guidelines set by Civil Protection (an effort to protect the citizens of a state from human-made and natural disasters), which aim to ensure the safety of guests. These guidelines may vary depending on the location and type of property, but some common requirements include:

• First aid kit
• Carbon monoxide (CO2) and smoke detectors
• Rechargeable emergency lamp
• Fire extinguisher
• Visible emergency numbers Complying with these requirements not only protects your guests but also helps you avoid fines or penalties for non-compliance.

Sticking with these requirements not only protects your guests, but also helps prevent fines or penalties for non-compliance.

Tourist identity validation

Vacation rental hosts are responsible for verifying the identity of guests staying in their accommodations, especially if they are traveling with minors. If you cannot meet this requirement, you must notify the appropriate authorities to avoid legal issues.

Penalties for non-compliance

Failure to comply with the established regulations may result in fines exceeding MXN $100,000 or even the suspension of the operating license. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that your property and rental processes align with the law.

At Naya Homes, we are committed to complying with local regulations. That’s why we have the necessary RETUR-Q registration and ensure that all our properties in Quintana Roo meet the highest safety and legal standards.

Questions about how to comply with regulations in Quintana Roo?

Click here or fill out the form below, and we’ll contact you to help manage your property in accordance with the law.