As of 1 January 2025, Barcelona has officially banned gas-powered patio heaters across all bars, restaurants, and hotels. The decision is part of a phased effort that began in 2018, with growing pressure from environmental groups citing the devices' high carbon footprint. According to conservationists, one heater used during winter can emit as much CO₂ as a car driven around the globe three times—a statistic that underscores the urgency behind the change.

Until 30 April 2025, Barcelona will still allow electric heaters with limited output (maximum 150W/m²), but after that, a full ban on outdoor heating devices will be enforced. This marks a significant shift not only for Barcelona’s hospitality venues but for the global on-trade, as more cities and countries follow suit in a bid to cut emissions.

A ripple effect across Europe

Barcelona’s move follows similar legislation in France, which enacted a national ban on gas patio heaters in 2022. However, France’s ban includes exemptions—outdoor heaters can still be used in enclosed private courtyards, tents, or public transport waiting areas like train stations.

Elsewhere in Spain, Madrid attempted a similar measure in 2024, but the local court struck it down, citing a lack of evidence linking patio heaters to climate change. Still, with thousands of terraces relying on outdoor heaters in Madrid alone, the debate is far from over.

With these developments, it’s becoming increasingly likely that other European cities may follow Barcelona’s lead, sparking concern within the hospitality sector.

Impact on the hospitality industry

Outdoor space has become crucial for the hospitality industry, especially post-pandemic, as consumers grew accustomed to dining and drinking outside. In the UK, this trend was further accelerated by the smoking ban, which pushed many patrons outdoors.

According to Kate Nicholls, CEO of UKHospitality, any loss of outdoor heating could have significant financial implications. “Over the past few years, we have seen the UK Government incentivise the use of outdoor space and we would like to see that continue,” she said. “This is particularly relevant in light of ongoing cost pressures, where businesses will be looking to maximise their revenue-driving potential, with outdoor spaces being a big part of that.”

Wintertime in particular poses a challenge. With heaters gone, venues may face a sharp drop in footfall during colder months. Summer foot traffic might not be enough to offset winter losses, putting additional pressure on operators already contending with tight margins and rising energy bills.

The potential demise of winter pop-ups

The decision also threatens a hospitality staple: the winter pop-up. These seasonal events—often decked out with blankets, fairy lights, and spiced cocktails—rely heavily on patio heaters to create a cosy atmosphere amid frosty conditions. Without gas heaters, such pop-ups could disappear or drastically change, affecting both consumer experience and revenue during what is traditionally a quieter trading season.

In regions known for their café culture, such as Paris, Rome, or Vienna, banning heaters could also transform how locals and tourists interact with public spaces. Terrace culture, a quintessential part of European life, may need to adapt quickly—or fade altogether during colder months.

Sustainability vs survival

There’s no denying the environmental case for the ban. Heating outdoor spaces is inherently inefficient, especially in an era of heightened climate consciousness. For cities like Barcelona aiming to meet sustainability targets, eliminating outdoor gas heaters is a logical step.

But the financial toll on small businesses must also be considered. With energy costs already high and economic recovery uneven, the loss of heated outdoor spaces might tip some operators over the edge. It raises a critical question: can the industry find an eco-conscious yet commercially viable alternative?

Electric heaters are one potential answer, but their use is already being restricted due to energy consumption. More permanent structural solutions—like enclosed terraces, glass pods, or heat-retaining building materials—could offer a middle ground, albeit with significant upfront investment.

A turning point for global hospitality

Barcelona’s ban may be the first of many, signaling a broader reassessment of how outdoor hospitality is managed in the face of climate change. While the industry has proven its resilience time and again, this new challenge requires creative thinking, sustainable design, and perhaps even a cultural shift in how we enjoy hospitality in colder months.

As environmental concerns grow and regulatory pressures mount, the days of toasty terraces may be numbered. But if the hospitality sector can balance warmth with sustainability, it may yet find a way to thrive—without heating the planet in the process.