BEACH weather is here, but so are a list of fines you can face in Malaga.
It’s that time of year for the temperature to rise and beach spots to fill up.
As tourists pour into the Malaga-Costa del Sol airport from all over the globe, with expectations of a slew of 22 million visitors this summer, it’s worth knowing what exactly can get you in trouble and paying up to the police this summer.
The provisions of Malaga’s Article 16 on ‘beach use and enjoyment’ ordinance include multiple sections that prohibit seemingly common beach activities.
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One part of the law states ‘physiological evacuation in the sea or on the beach is prohibited.’
In other words, peeing in the ocean is a big no-no.
While the law doesn’t specify how exactly to monitor someone taking a leak in the sea, getting caught could cost you up to €300.
Doing the same along Marbella’s beaches has an even higher fine of up to €750.
If your ideal summer vacation involves playing sports or playing games with friends while lounging in the sand, think twice.
Article 6 of the same law states: ‘it is prohibited in bathing areas and in the seawater to carry out activities, games, or exercises that may disturb other users.’
So partaking in a fun game or sport on the beach could result in a fine between €300 to €3,000.
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Music is another issue.
While it may seem common to take a speaker and listen to tunes while tanning, the act can be penalised up to €300, as the law states it prohibits ‘pollution from noise, vibrations and other forms of energy.’
Other actions that can be fined on Malaga beaches include bringing a dog onto the beach – a common site in Marbella – camping on the beach, lighting a fire, holding a barbeque, taking a boat outside of a buoyed area, fishing in an unauthorised spot, street vending, and cleaning utensils in the designated beach showers.
The ordinance specifies that minor offences are often given fines starting at €300, while more serious offences can reach a steep €3,000.
The worst part? People who are fined for any of these violations are often told to leave the beach altogether by enforcing officers.
You can view the entire list of rules under Malaga’s municipal beach ordinance (Ordenaza de Uso y Disfrute de las Playas) here: https://www.malaga.eu/visorcontenido/NRMDocumentDisplayer/15/DocumentoNormativa15.
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What is the point of going to the beach if you cannot play any bat and ball games? I understand if the beach is chocker-blocked that you don’t play it near people sunbathing however it’s giving a negative connotation of saying not to do any sport and not to be active. Beach bat and ball has been a well known activity for years. This rule is stopping you to be active?