Second homes in Alpine resort communities: a critical approach of spatial and housing policy effectiveness

Abstract

The Alps are characterised by diverse legal frameworks that regulate second homes. Winter sports resorts, which are highly
exposed to tourism gentrification and real estate market pressures provide a suitable context for exploring the effectiveness of public
policies aimed at limiting the growth of second homes and improving the housing market for permanent residents.
Using document review, interviews and territorial data, we examined how spatial planning regulations of second homes and housing policies in French, Switz, Italian, Austrian and Slovenian municipalities are often undermined by household strategies to circumvent land use control. In most of those areas, the mere adoption of a stricter legal framework is not sufficient to regulate the development and use of second homes. Effective implementation and enforcement mechanisms face challenges due to the agility of private residential use, sometimes supported by stakeholders in tourism destinations, and to ethical concerns related to privacy rights. Our findings suggest that, despite studying second home regulations and land as well as housing policies, further research is needed on the influence of tourism gentrification on housing affordability. This research could inform alternative policy measures that balance economic development with equitable housing access, ensuring the needs of permanent residents are addressed.