South Tyrol's Ski Resorts: Classification Is Being Adjusted

Green light from the state government for the "Measures for the Development of Ski Areas (2025-2026)" – State Councillor Galateo: "Decisive step for safety and environmental protection"

On July 15, the regional government approved a change to the classification criteria for ski resorts to better align them with existing guidelines for granting subsidies. The proposal was submitted by the regional councilor for economic development, Marco Galateo.

"This is an important step toward increasingly efficient management of contributions for the ski resorts in South Tyrol," emphasizes Galateo. "We wanted to create order and clarity and reward those who act with responsibility and foresight. Now a decisive step has been taken, not only for safety on the slopes, but also for environmental protection," explains the regional councilor. The measure represents "a strategic decision to make the use of public funds more effective and sustainable."

The amendment redefines the categories of beneficiaries and adds another Ateco code. It also introduces the requirement that the area be recognized as an equipped ski resort, as required by Regional Law 14/2010. This is intended to improve safety and the correct classification of the slopes already included in the regional plan.

The regulations for conveyor belts will also be simplified to provide operators with more clarity. Conveyor belts are only permitted for local ski resorts that are not subject to international competition. A maximum of two conveyor belts can be subsidized within a ten-year period from the date of the first purchase.

Great attention is also being paid to ecological sustainability: Electric snowmobiles are now included in eligible expenditures. Starting in 2026, ski resorts competing internationally will be required to demonstrate their environmental commitment through recognized certifications, including EMAS, Klimafactory, audited sustainability reports, and proof of climate neutrality.