Greece Shoreline Use Law Revision Paves Way for On-the-Spot Checks

© Maria Theofanopoulou

The Greek Economy Ministry is putting the finishing touches on a revised shoreline use law — aiming to facilitate recreational activities including the rental of sea sport equipment, the placement of tables and chairs, umbrellas and recliners along beaches and shorelines — paving the way for on-the-spot inspections.

The law, which also aims to clarify the financial terms of shoreline use as well as safeguard public property, is currently under examination by the environment, citizen protection and interior ministries.

© Maria Theofanopoulou

According to capital.gr, revisions to the ruling include stricter penalties in case of violations, clarifications on licensing procedures for social events including seaside wedding ceremonies, stripping port authorities of jurisdiction over coastal areas, introducing compensatory measures in the case shoreline projects are permitted, and simplifying licensing procedures for developmental construction works concerning the protection of the environment and of cultural heritage.

At the same time, the economy ministry plan also foresees extensive checks to begin in the immediate future and to increase during the summer months in order to ensure the law is being kept to. A special team under the economy ministry’s Financial Crime Squad (SDOE) will be responsible for the inspections. The main violation during summer involves exceeding the set limit at 50 percent of shoreline use with the placement of tables, chairs, umbrellas and recliners.