Long-standing but oft-ignored laws in Greece governing beach access, especially the landmark provision mandating that a private property holder or concessionaire must “provide a free passage for the unhindered and safe access of citizens” to the coastline if the property is located between a public road and the latter, was highlighted on Monday by a local consumers’ union.
The relevant announcement detailed the rights of citizens and visitors to beach and coastal area access in the east Mediterranean country, which sports one of the longest coastlines in Europe.
A so-called “towel movement” emerged in the country last year and pressured the government into changing an outdated coastline use law after the former brought the problem into the international spotlight.
Regarding the often-contentious issue of beach concessions, such as beach bars replete with sun beds and umbrellas exceeding the actual space listed on a contract with a public entity, the consumers’ group said the law prohibits a concession on more than 50% of the total surface of the beach; 30% for Natura protected areas.
Additionally, a six-meter space is mandated between areas allocated for commercial concession, allowing bathers and beachgoers to reach the shore freely and easily.
Finally, no beachfront or shoreline can be leased if its total length and width is less than four meters, or the total surface is under 150 square meters.
Beach bars
In terms of beach bars, operators must ensure the free, safe and unobstructed access of the public to the beach, including people with special needs.
Additionally, private operators must keep the space clean and post, in plain view, the coordinates and number of the concession, along with the rights and obligations of the latter. A QR code with all the aforementioned information must also be posted.
Other obligations of beach bars are to provide sanitation areas (WC, shower and a change room); maintain the natural environment at the site, such as by preserving the characteristics of the coast and the coastline; ensure the presence of a lifeguard and the placement of seatracks in case this requirement is not covered by a relevant municipality; and remove all types of equipment when the season ends.
