Most Faroese municipalities submit tourism plans

Sixteen of the Faroe Islands’ municipalities have submitted draft tourism plans to the Ministry of Labour, with four more expected to follow, Kringvarp Føroya reports.

Klaksvík has sent its proposal for review, while Tórshavn and Runavík have each submitted multiple plans, as both municipalities cover several settlements. In total, the ministry has received 30 drafts, according to Óyvindur av Skarði, a ministry representative.

The submissions, originally due at the turn of the year, have arrived gradually. The plans are part of new legislation on sustainable tourism, which also addresses fees for tourists and tour groups visiting various sites.

The goal is to strengthen local autonomy in tourism management. Under the law, the national government and municipalities will jointly determine protections for nature, culture, and welfare, with final approval resting with the Ministry of Labour.

All plans follow a standard template set by the ministry, covering areas such as new paths, signage, and other infrastructure. Municipalities have consulted with local stakeholders, including farmers and tourism operators, and in some cases held public meetings.

The ministry, in collaboration with Visit Faroe Islands, has supported municipalities in developing their plans, particularly where resources were limited. Larger plans are still being refined.

The sustainable tourism law, including provisions for tourism plans and commercial tourism activities, took effect last year.