Since the start of July, Greek authorities have handed out over €800,000 worth of fines for beach rule violations. Earlier this year, Greece announced a series of new beach rules designed to improve public access to the country's world-famous coastline and reduce overcrowding. A minimum distance of four metres between sunbeds and the shoreline was introduced to make it easier for beach-goers to get to the water.
Another change meant that 70% of beaches must now be sunbed-free to avoid overcrowding and make sunbathing more comfortable. Electronic reporting systems were installed near beaches so that people could report any violations to authorities and it was announced that drone inspections would be carried out to ensure compliance. Read more: Foreign Office warns UK tourists of two 'safe' items that cause bags to be searched at airport security This month alone, the Greek Ministry of Economy and Finance has reportedly investigated over 4,500 citizen complaints about beaches and coastal areas across Greece.
Many involved reports of beaches being 'overtaken' by local businesses. On-site inspections were carried out at more than 150 beaches to ensure that the sands remained fully accessible and to check that beachfront businesses were not illegally expanding beyond their designated areas. Fines of over €800,000 (more than £600,000) were issued for violations, which included businesses setting up umbrellas and deck chairs beyond their boundaries, failing to display the requ.