La Laguna Implements New Coastal Regulations Including Smoking Ban

New regulations for the San Cristóbal de La Laguna coastline officially took effect on Wednesday, October 7, following their publication in the Official Gazette of the Province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. This updated legal framework gives the City Council the tools needed to better manage, protect, and conserve its beaches and natural pools amid rising tourism and the need to safeguard fragile coastal ecosystems.

The new rules apply to all local beaches as well as the natural pools at Bajamar, Jover, La Barranquera, and El Arenisco. To ensure these areas remain protected, the council has introduced a system of fines for behavior that harms the environment or disrupts public peace. Mayor Luis Yeray Gutiérrez noted that the goal is to balance the needs of residents and visitors while protecting the marine environment.

Key changes include a total ban on smoking across the entire municipal coastline. Other strict prohibitions include using chemicals in showers, littering, camping on the sand overnight, and creating excessive noise. These measures reflect a broader national trend in Spain toward prioritizing sustainability and water quality.

The ordinance also reinforces the city’s commitment to accessibility. It formalizes the availability of resources like amphibious chairs and adapted restrooms, ensuring that the coast remains inclusive for everyone. These efforts are further supported by a recent contract to upgrade surveillance and lifeguard services, improving both the equipment and the staff available to the public.

Ultimately, these regulations serve as a strategic plan for the future. By setting clear rules for unique locations like the natural pools of Punta del Hidalgo and Valle de Guerra, the La Laguna City Council aims to ensure that these natural resources can be enjoyed today without compromising their long-term preservation.