Authorities have released a new list of things banned on beaches in the Canary Islands- and some carry hefty fines. The Canary Islands are a popular holiday destination for British tourists, so it’s important to make sure you won’t risk any fines if you are jetting off this summer.
The new regulations cover the Agaete coastline in Gran Canaria and have now come into effect. These restrictions will apply to beaches, promenades and other coastal areas, reports Canarian Weekly. Among the most notable measures is the prohibition of engaging in sexual activities in the water, bathing areas, or any public “maritime-terrestrial domain”. Another restriction is smoking, including vaping, as well as playing music in sunbathing areas. But these aren’t the only new rules which have been imposed,
Cooking on the beach and using traditional umbrellas are also now banned.
Beach-goers are also not allowed to camp or set up tents on beaches or in coves.
Regulations mean that people are prohibited from reserving spots on sun decks and bathing platforms.
In the entire bathing area, shellfish collection is banned, including in submerged and emerged rocky formations.
Animals can be walked on a lead and remain in the public maritime-terrestrial domain if accompanied by their owners.
For those who choose not to follow the rules, fines will be imposed by authorities.
Minor infractions will incur fines ranging from £25 to £629, serious offences between £630 and £1,258, while very serious violations may lead to fines of up to £2,517.
Last week, Gran Canaria was hit by floods with holiday makers given direct warnings to remain inside as surging waters posed extreme danger across the island.
Gran Canaria’s streets transformed into raging rivers as water levels rose perilously high.
Shocking images on social media showed rivers of dirt and mud covering the streets, with cars being washed into the sea.
One video showed a woman being rescued from a submerged car and dragged to safety.
