Frequently Asked Questions

These are areas of land that enjoy legal protection from the Autonomous Community of the Canary Islands for the conservation of their natural, scenic and/or cultural values.

These are areas that form part of a European network for the conservation of habitats and species across all EU countries.

No. Depending on the relative importance of certain values compared to others, and on their scope, there are different categories of ENP.

Some have been designated for their importance to birds (Special Protection Areas), whilst others have been designated due to the presence of habitats and species of importance to the European Union (Sites of Community Importance).

The existing ENPs in GC are: Strict Nature Reserves (small in size, high environmental value), Nature Parks (large in area and high environmental value), Special Nature Reserves (small in size, moderate environmental value, some human use), Rural Parks (large area, moderate environmental value and extensive human use), Protected Landscapes (landscape value, large area), Natural Monuments (landscape value, medium or small area) and Sites of Scientific Interest (small area and a specific environmental value: species populations, etc.).

Incorrect. In Rural Parks and Protected Landscapes, the aim is to conserve their natural values whilst ensuring the harmonious development of the communities living within them. Even in categories of Protected Natural Areas where natural values predominate, existing land uses may continue under current conditions, provided they do not jeopardise conservation.

If the photo shoot is for private use, does not form part of a professional or commercial activity, and no infrastructure of any kind is to be installed, it is not necessary to obtain administrative authorisation. However, if it is a professional or commercial activity, you must first consult the procedure published on the Cabildo’s website, as the activity requires prior administrative authorisation:
 

• Autorización para la filmación y fotografía en Espacio Natural Protegido 

The former are designated by the European Commission and the latter by the Autonomous Community of the Canary Islands. The NAPs establish different zones and specify the uses that are permitted or prohibited within them. The SACs do not establish different uses by zone, but rather set out strategies for the conservation and improvement of the habitats and species that justify their designation.

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• Submission of the application to the Council’s Registry by prior appointment by calling 928 21 92 29 (opening hours: 09:00–14:00).
• The application must be submitted at least 45 days in advance of the planned date of the event.
• The application must include the following information: The exact location where the activity is to take place, preferably in digital format (kmz, kml or gpx), in order to determine the type of protected natural area to which it belongs.
• The number of people who will be taking part in the activity, as well as the resources and equipment to be used for its delivery.
• The date(s) on which it is to take place, and the scheduled timetable.
• It is possible to issue an authorisation valid for one year, provided that the activity takes place in specific, pre-established locations and in compliance with the conditions set out in the authorisation.
• A copy of the ID card or tax identification number of the person or company applying for authorisation, as the party responsible for the activity.
• Applicants must provide liability insurance covering the risk of accidents to those taking part in the activity and any damage to third parties.

• The proposed activity must be reported to the officer responsible for the protected natural area in which it is to take place, after which the relevant administrative authorisation will be issued and notified to the person or organisation concerned.