The beach is one of the most popular places for everyone, both those who stay there on vacation and those who live nearby. It is, therefore, quite possible that we are tempted to sleep under
The beach is one of the most popular places for everyone, both those who stay there on vacation and those who live nearby. It is, therefore, quite possible that we are tempted to sleep under the stars on the beach. So what exactly are the regulations on this subject? So, without further ado, let’s dive into this blog to learn more about this.
General rule
Sleeping under the stars on the beach is probably one of the most fascinating adventures. Of course, it is only possible if the weather conditions allow it. Because it is part of the public maritime domain, the beach is a free place, and sleeping on it is allowed. However, this authorization is not valid for all the beaches and varies according to the particular instructions. In general, these instructions are applied to preserve the safety of all.
The regulations
Accessibility
As a general rule, all beaches are freely accessible. However, there is no complete prohibition, but only in a certain part. Exceptionally, it is possible that some of them are privatized by a third person.
Legal right
In principle, sleeping under the stars on the beach is perfectly legal. However, there are some restrictions related to this practice.
The restrictions
According to the article R 111-42 of the Urbanism Code, wild camping on the beach is completely forbidden. Knowing that this activity requires the fact of sleeping there at night, measures apply to practice it. These accompanying measures for camping involve:
- Setting up tents
- The installation of various materials and equipment for camping.
Therefore, the practice of wild camping on the beach is forbidden as this place is not equipped for such a night activity. If you break the law, you will be fined by the police.
Permits
This feeling of well-being and relaxation, through the sound of the waves, when you wake up, is an unequaled adventure. In order to enjoy the nature and landscape of the beach, the only thing allowed is to sleep there without setting up a camping tent. However, it is totally allowed to spend the night under the stars by setting up a sleeping bag directly on the beach. This way, you can enjoy the moonlight without worrying about the police disturbing you.
Nevertheless, in some regions and countries, sleeping on the beach is not allowed at all. Therefore, in order to have a good time, it is always better to know in advance the municipal bylaws in force that regulate the right to the beach in question. Therefore, before you plan your trip, you should determine in advance all the activities you will be doing. Indeed, the vacation period is one of the most appreciated moments by all. To make the most of it and venture into new experiences, plan everything in advance to avoid unpleasant surprises on site.
The beach is not accessible every day, so when you have the opportunity to enjoy good moments of relaxation, do not venture to camp there. Therefore, limit yourself to sleeping in the open air under the wind and the beautiful stars. Camping can lead to many negative consequences. For this reason, the town hall formally prohibits the lighting of fires. Moreover, the beach is a free space; everyone should enjoy it. So if you install bulky camping equipment, the space will be limited.
Sleeping under the stars or under canvas
Beware! Sleeping under the stars or pitching your tent in the wild is not allowed everywhere. In principle, nothing forbids you to spend the night on the sand and wake up to the sound of the waves. But it is better to check the municipal by-laws. On the other hand, wild camping is forbidden on the shores of the sea, in woods, forests, and parks classified as wooded areas to be preserved, on roads and paths.
It is also forbidden to set up on a classified site or within 500 meters of a historical monument or within 200 meters of a drinking water catchment area. Not to mention that the prefectures and municipalities can impose their own bans.
Fines differ according to local regulations. The best thing to do is to ask the municipality’s town hall where you would like to set up. However, in some French national parks, it is possible to bivouac as long as you are less than an hour from the road access; this allows you to make a stop during your hike.
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