Skip to main content
GUIDE TO BUILDING IN MALLORCA

IDEIB

IDEIB

IDEIB – Why Architects in Mallorca Use IDEIB (and Not Google Maps)

Google Maps may be convenient for everyday use, but it is not the right tool for professional site analysis. That is why architects in Mallorca rely on IDEIB, the official geoportal of the Govern de les Illes Balears. Developed specifically for the regional context, it consolidates a broad and detailed database that is indispensable for architects, investors, and developers at the early stage of any project.

It is worth noting that IDEIB does not include a function comparable to Street View. Mallorca is extensively covered on Google Maps, often with recent imagery, but some captures may be more than 15 years old and therefore unsuitable as a technical reference.

  1. What is IDEIB?

IDEIB stands for Infraestructura de Dades Espacials de les Illes Balears (Spatial Data Infrastructure of the Balearic Islands). Through its online viewer (https://ideib.caib.es/), users can access cadastral parcels and a wide range of cartographic layers essential for land-use and planning decisions across the Balearic Islands.

  1. Official and Accessible Data

IDEIB provides official data – the same information used by municipalities and public administrations. Among other datasets, it includes:

  • Parcel boundaries with direct link to the Catastro (Cadastre).
  • Land classification (suelo urbano, suelo rústico protegido, ANEI, ARIP, etc.).
  • Protection zones such as nature conservation areas, coastline, flood-risk and wildfire zones (Espais Naturals Protegits).
  • Layers with heritage assets and natural landmarks, wind and solar exposure maps, forest cover and Posidonia oceanica meadows.
  • Information on agricultural and industrial uses, public infrastructures, municipal boundaries, and postal codes.

Google Maps is used only as an informal reference, since it provides none of this binding information.

  1. Historical Mapping and Aerial Photography Since 1956

IDEIB allows users to consult historical aerial photography and compare orthophotos across different years.
This functionality is extremely useful for legalisation procedures, in the management of existing buildings, and also offers valuable insights for those interested in the historical evolution of the territory.

  1. Tools and Data Export

The IDEIB viewer includes more than 130 layers, organised into multiple subfolders that can be activated or deactivated freely.
Key features include the ability to adjust layer transparency, measure surfaces and distances, and export scaled maps in PDF format with legends.

  1. Transparency with Public Authorities

The information available in IDEIB is used as an official reference in planning applications, informes sectoriales (sectoral reports), and communication with local administrations.
Notaries, valuation experts, and municipal technicians also work regularly with this data, which helps ensure faster, more transparent, and smoother administrative procedures.

Conclusion: IDEIB is Essential for Architects and Developers in Mallorca

For anyone purchasing, planning, or building on a plot in Mallorca, IDEIB is an indispensable tool. With its accurate, up-to-date, and historical datasets, it provides the technical foundation for secure and well-informed project development.

Nevertheless, it is advisable to confirm information with the relevant town hall, as IDEIB does not anticipate future regulatory changes.

Recommendation: Before making any decision about purchasing a plot or submitting a building permit application, always check the site in IDEIB first.

Legal advise

Cookie policy