Greek Lawmakers Take Action to Protect Public Beach Access

Beach at Rhodes, Greece.

For the first time, Greece will introduce steep fines for obstructing access to public beaches under a new shoreline use law passed in parliament this week.

Among others, the new legislation on shoreline and beach use foresees stricter fines, more effective inspection methods which include the use of drones, and an online platform for public complaints.

The goal, said Greek Economy & Finance Minister Kostis Hatzidakis, is to ensure free access to beaches to the public, protect the country’s beaches and the environment, contribute to the upgrade the country’s tourist product, and safeguard public interest.

Under the new legislation, violations concerning public beach access will be penalized with fines of up to 60,000 euros.

Greek Economy & Finance Minister Kostis Hatzidakis. Photo source: Greek Economy & Finance Ministry

Additionally, an online platform will be set up where interested parties can apply for shoreline use auctions to ensure transparent procedures; a new provision for “untouched beaches” will not allow umbrellas and sunbeds at Natura beaches; there will be stricter rules concerning the management of the beaches in order to ensure free public access.

According to the law, at least 50 percent of the beach must remain free of umbrellas and sunbeds and the total area of each concession cannot exceed 500m2. There must be a distance of at least 6 meters between concessions and umbrellas and sunbeds be placed at least 4 meters from the coastline.

Beaches measuring less than 4 meters in width or length or with a total area of 150m2 can be auctioned off.

The new law also introduces more requirements for concessionaires, increased inspections with new technologies including drones, harsher penalties which may include sealing off businesses, and lastly, an online platform where citizens can report violations and abuse.