Landscaping & Garden Design in Málaga

Hello, I am Álvaro Ferrer, project coordinator at TuExterior. Over the years, I have helped many international residents transform their outdoor spaces into Mediterranean sanctuaries. Whether you own a villa in the exclusive hills of El Limonar and Cerrado de Calderón, or a modern apartment in the growing Teatinos-Universidad district, I understand the unique challenges of landscaping in Málaga. This vibrant capital of the Málaga - Costa del Sol province, home to approximately 593,333 residents, offers a wonderful climate but presents specific environmental demands. For those living in coastal neighborhoods like Pedregalejo or El Palo, the intense salt exposure from the Mediterranean Sea requires a careful selection of materials and plants that can withstand corrosion. My goal is to ensure your garden or terrace remains lush and durable throughout the year. Regarding investment, in Málaga a landscaping typically runs 30-120 €/m² including local labour, depending on the complexity of the design and the premium quality of the materials chosen to resist the Andalusian sun.

How we work

1. Initial Contact

Reach out via our website or phone to share your vision; we will discuss your specific needs and the unique characteristics of your Málaga property.

2. Site Visit & Measuring

I will personally visit your home to take precise measurements, assess the orientation for sun exposure, and analyze the soil or terrace structure.

3. Free Quote

You will receive a detailed, transparent proposal tailored to your budget, including a breakdown of materials, local labour costs, and estimated timelines.

4. Professional Installation

Our expert team carries out the work with minimal disruption, ensuring every pergola, plant, or decking element is perfectly installed and finished to the highest standard.

Understanding Local Regulations and Permits in Málaga

Navigating the legal landscape of home improvements in Spain can be daunting for English-speaking residents. In Málaga, the regulatory framework is governed by the PGOU (Plan General de Ordenación Urbana) and the specific Municipal Licensing Ordinance. It is important to note that the classic distinction between "obra menor" and "obra mayor" has been refined into a system of Type 1, 2, and 3 Works. For most minor landscaping improvements, a "declaración responsable" (responsible declaration) or "comunicación previa" (prior communication) is sufficient. However, for more significant structural changes, a formal building license is required.

Regarding specific installations, the UNE-EN 13561 standard applies to solar protection systems like awnings. In private properties, retractable awnings and parasols generally do not require a municipal license. However, more permanent structures such as pergolas, terrace enclosures, glass curtains, and fixed exterior structures do require a technical project and a formal enabling title from the city. Furthermore, if you live in a community of owners (Comunidad de Propietarios), any modification affecting the building's facade—considered a common element—typically requires a majority vote and authorization from the board.

For those lucky enough to live on the beachfront, the "Ley de Costas" (Coastal Law) imposes strict limitations. This includes a protection easement (servidumbre de protección) of up to 100 meters and a transit easement (servidumbre de tránsito) of 6 meters in non-consolidated land. These areas are managed by the "Demarcación de Costas" under the State or Regional Government. Additionally, if your property is near the Montes de Málaga Natural Park or within the historic center (BIC - Bien de Interés Cultural), there are additional aesthetic and environmental conditions to respect. All procedures are managed through the Gerencia Municipal de Urbanismo, which can be accessed at urbanismo.malaga.eu. We handle these administrative hurdles for you to ensure your project is fully compliant.