A New Bill Introduces Stricter Beach Rules in Greece
A New Bill Introduces Stricter Beach Rules in Greece
A new bill has been passed in Greece, bringing in stricter rules for beaches in an attempt to prevent overcrowding and improve public access to the country’s famed coastlines.
Mandating Sunbed-Free Spaces
Under the new measure, 70 percent of the space on any given beach in Greece must remain free of sunbeds. In protected areas, this percentage increases to 85. The aim is to create more orderly and spacious beaches, making sunbathing a more enjoyable activity for visitors.
To ensure easy access to the water, a minimum distance of four meters between sunbeds and the shoreline will be enforced.
Untouchable Beaches and Public Access
In ecologically-rich areas, so-called “untouchable beaches” will be established, where sunbeds will be entirely banned. Additionally, the new law states that at least half of the beaches must remain open to the public, preventing areas from being monopolized by rental umbrellas and bars.
Lease allocations for concessions will now be awarded through online auctions to increase transparency and avoid underhand deals.
Controlling Business Operations and Environmental Concerns
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis shared news of the new rules on TikTok, announcing the introduction of e-auctions to obtain beach licenses. This measure aims to control who purchases and operates businesses on land. Permit holders will also have specific obligations, such as keeping beaches sanitary, allowing access to people with disabilities, and hiring a lifeguard.
The law will be strictly enforced through checks, fines, and even closures of businesses if necessary.
During the creation of the bill, the government faced calls from environmental organizations to withdraw controversial provisions that would allow construction right on the sea. The bill also removes the ban on the concession of “small coastal areas,” raising concerns among some groups about the protection of Greece’s coastline.
While the new beach rules aim to improve public access and prevent overcrowding, ongoing discussions and considerations are necessary to ensure the preservation of Greece’s natural beauty and coastal ecosystems.
