The bathing season has started for weeks and, with it, multiply the hot days that invite a dive on the beach. With temperatures to exceed 30 degrees and beaches full of Portuguese on weekends, it is essential to remember that there are rules to comply, and fines to avoid.
According to Executive Digest, this year are watched 589 beaches in Portugal, four more than in 2024. However, surveillance does not only apply to the sea. Since 2012 there is a set of standards to ensure coexistence in the Areals, and new measures are on their way.
Each municipality defines what you can or can not
According to the same source, although there are common norms, some rules vary depending on the municipality, within the scope of the decentralization process. Local regulations are fixed in beach edicts, which must be visible to the entrance of the Areals.
The National Maritime Authority (AMN) clarifies that, in general, prohibitions and fines remain identical to those of the previous year. Still, it is important to know what can give rise to a fine, even without intention.
Pets are at the door
Although there are pet friendly beaches, the general rule remains the ban on animals outside the authorized areas. Dog circulation is limited to walkways, and is not allowed in the Areals.
According to the public, Decree-Law No. 159/2012 establishes this prohibition, but does not refer to the offenses.
That is, even being illegal, taking the dog to the beach may not result directly in a fine.
Loud sound can come out expensive
The use of columns and other sound equipment is also limited. As AMN explains, listening to music without headquarters is prohibited, as it interferes with the well-being of the other bathers.
Fines planned range from 55 to 550 euros, but in case of complaint, the maritime police may pass auto of news.
The municipality may then apply the overall noise regulation, with fines that can reach 4,000 euros.
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Camping in the sand is infringement
Set up a tent or spend the night on the beach is equally forbidden. The legislation provides that camping is only allowed within licensed parks. Outside them, the infraction can cost up to 550 euros.
Ball games only in authorized areas
Football, volleyball or rackets are common activities in the Areals, but may not be welcome. If there are no specific areas marked for this purpose, the practice is considered illegal and punishable by a fine.
Nudism and topless: there are its own places
Topless is allowed, but nudism can only occur in the nine official naturism beaches. Outside these spaces, it can be considered a crime of sexual harassment.
It states that, in the case of the topless, the saving swimmer can alert the maritime police if a swimmer complains. The performance, in this case, will be only pedagogical.
Abaco will be prohibited, but only next year
The new tobacco law will come into force in October and provides for the prohibition of smoking on the beaches. However, its application will depend on the dealers’ decision. Until then, smoking is still allowed, but carefully to signaties.
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