The Marbella Town Hall has issued a decree that exceptionally authorises the installation of audiovisual equipment on terraces and outdoor seating during the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, which takes place this Sunday, July 19.
The measure, which responds to a request from the hospitality sector, will allow bars and restaurants in Marbella to install screens on their terraces so that locals and tourists can watch the match live as Spain faces Argentina. The aim, as explained by the mayor, Ángeles Muñoz, is to boost commercial activity during an event of great public interest.
Conditions for screen installation
The municipal decree states that the devices must be oriented inward towards the terrace, avoiding direct exposure to the public street and not obstructing pedestrian traffic. Additionally, they can only be set up 30 minutes before the match starts and must be removed within 30 minutes after it ends.
The use of sound amplifiers is prohibited, although the reduction of noise emission limits during nighttime hours will be temporarily suspended during the match broadcast. However, the permitted noise levels for daytime in commercial areas will remain, set between 65 and 68 decibels.
The resolution is adopted under the Decree 155/2018, which regulates the Catalogue of Public Shows, Recreational Activities, and Public Establishments in Andalusia, and the powers granted to the Mayor by the Regulatory Law of the Bases of Local Regime.
Reactions from the hospitality sector
Hospitality professionals in Marbella have welcomed the measure, which they consider key to boosting the local economy during a weekend of high tourist influx. The Marbella Hospitality Association (Aehma) highlights that the initiative allows for compatibility between business and community living, as the imposed conditions ensure that no disturbances are caused.
"It’s an opportunity for bars and restaurants to offer an extra service to their customers, while also promoting consumption in the city," sector sources state. The measure affects all hospitality and restaurant establishments in the municipality, both in the urban area and along the coast.
Impact on the city and recommendations
Marbella expects high tourist occupancy over the weekend, and the World Cup final is shaping up to be an additional attraction for visitors. The Town Hall advises citizens to plan their travel and consumption in advance, and reminds that establishments must strictly comply with the conditions of the decree to avoid penalties.
The mayor, Ángeles Muñoz, has emphasised that the goal "is to support the local economy during the celebration of an event of special public interest, while balancing this objective with compliance with the established conditions to ensure coexistence."
For fans who want to watch the match in the street, the safest option is to go to the authorised terraces, where they can enjoy the game without violating regulations. The decree will be in effect only on Sunday, July 19, from half an hour before the match starts until half an hour after it ends.
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