Associação of Concessionários of Orla Marítima of Algarve contested the clarification of Agência Portuguesa of Ambiente. The entity considers that placing parasols in front of beach concessions could compromise the safety of bathers.
AISCOMA president Artur Simão expressed concern about the guidance. Ele argued that the area in front of bathing facilities needs to remain free for quick interventions in case of emergency.
Concessionários points to risk for rescuers
Artur Simão told agency Lusa that the area in front of the concessions must be clear. Nadadores-salvadores need space to move around and operate efficiently, including with equipment such as watercraft.
Ele highlighted that the practice of placing umbrellas in this lane was never common. The change can create obstructions on the beach, especially in situations of strong wind or rough seas.
The representative also recalled that several beaches in Algarve have desilting problems this year. Banhistas that place hats in wet sand increase the risk of accidents with other users of the space.
- Lifeguards must have free passage for emergencies
- The beach front needs to allow people to circulate on foot
- Equipamentos rescue as watercraft demand clear area
- Strong Ventos can displace poorly secured hats in wet sand
APA reinforces public use of beaches
Agência Portuguesa of Ambiente issued technical clarification on the occupation of bathing beaches. The document indicates that beaches are spaces for public use and free access throughout the national territory.
Concessions cannot exceed 30% of the useful area of the beach or 50% of the beachfront. Areas outside these licenses remain available for placing parasols, windbreaks and other private equipment.
The APA cited Planos of Ordenamento of Orla Costeira and Regulamentos of Gestão of Praias Marítimas. Esses instruments ensure balance between private use and public use.
The clarification came after questions about informal bans. The entity reinforced that only the area delimited by the license is under the management of the concessionaire.
Debate gains strength at the beginning of the bathing season
The theme gained relevance as summer approached. Municípios from the Algarve had already asked for clarification on the occupation rules. The discussion also involves Autoridade Marítima Nacional.
Concessionários argue that the current organization of beaches facilitates control and security. Eles argue that the broad permission could create conflicts between swimmers and operators.
Artur Simão acknowledged that the concession rules are correct. The dispute focuses exclusively on the front lane, which should serve as a safety corridor.
Limites legal concessions on the beaches
Licenses for bathing facilities follow criteria defined by the morphological characteristics of each beach. Autoridades territorial and management instruments establish the exact conditions.
The maritime public domain maintains predominance. Qualquer private occupancy depends on specific authorization and respects maximum occupancy percentages.
Especialistas in coastal planning highlight the need to preserve access and circulation areas. Essa vision coincides with the concerns expressed by dealers.
Preocupações with unstable wind and sand
Praias desilted poses an additional challenge. The wetter and more unstable sand makes it difficult to securely attach sun hats. A sudden wind can sweep away light structures.
Nadadores-salvadores work along the entire length of the beach. Qualquer obstacle in front of grants may delay response to drownings or other incidents.
AISCOMA requests maintenance of previous practice. The association argues that the waterfront should prioritize mobility and collective security.
The APA clarification does not change existing licenses. Ele only reaffirms the public nature of the non-concessioned areas.