A popular holiday destination for British travellers has announced three new rules all tourists will have to follow. San Sebastián in northern Spain is a stunning resort nestled in the mountains of the Basque region and looking out onto the Bay of Biscay.
The town is famous for its gastronomy and has often been a must-visit destination for food-loving Brits seeking a tasty experience on the continent. But as well as delicious cuisine and wine, the town is also famous for white sandy beaches and stunning hiking terrain and winding rural highways great for road tripping.
However, fun-seeking Brits who like to party may have to curb their enthusiasm soon as the local city council has announced it plans to enforce new restrictions on smoking, noise and pets.
In a statement posted on X, San Sebastián City Council revealed the new rules would be start to be discussed from today (October 20) and come into force in June 2026.
It said: “The City Council will launch the participatory process to amend the Beach Ordinance on Monday October 20. It will address three major areas; the prohibition of smoking on the beaches, allowing dog access also during summer nights and the limitation of sound devices.”
Expanding on the measures, including a smoking ban on beaches, the council website states: “The smoking ban on beaches responds to growing environmental awareness and the need to reduce one of the main polluting waste sources on the coast.
It added that “cigarette butts represent between 30% and 50% of the waste collected” on local beaches.
The new rules also bring some positive news for pet owners. The council has announced plans to make beaches “that are friendlier and more respectful of animals”.
On the subject of pets, the council said: “The ordinance amendment will include new regulations on dog access year-round, aiming to harmonise recreational use of the beaches with animal welfare and public harmony.
“The new proposal will allow dogs to access the beaches during the summer months from 9pm to midnight , just before the start of cleaning work using municipal machinery.”
Finally the third issue the council said it is introducing new rules for is noise levels. It continued: “The City Council will also introduce specific regulations on the use of loudspeakers, music players, and other sound devices on beaches, to enhance the harmony and peace of mind of beachgoers.
“Until now, there were information panels recommending moderate use, but the increasing use of these devices has made it necessary to establish clear regulations.”
