Nicosia municipality enforces gym licensing requirements

The Nicosia Municipal Council officially decided on November 5, 2026, to link the issuance of municipal business licenses for private gyms to the possession of a valid annual operating license from the Cyprus Sports Organization (KOA). This decision, grounded in Article 56 of the 2022 Municipalities Law, aims to curb unfair competition and ensure that all fitness facilities meet the required legal and safety standards.

The Pan-Cypriot Association of Gym Owners (PASIGY) welcomed the move, noting that many facilities previously operated without proper documentation, which created significant market distortions. The Association emphasized that legitimate gyms invest heavily in professional staff, specialized equipment, and facility compliance, while unregulated spaces undermine these professional standards.

Following this development, PASIGY has announced it will contact all other municipalities across Cyprus to request the adoption of similar policies. The organization aims to monitor the progress of these requests by asking for written updates from each local authority, ensuring that the regulatory framework is applied consistently on a national level to protect both the industry and consumers.