The council of Vigo, in the region of Galicia, has violated the use of the outdoor space for toilet purposes with a fine of up to 750 euros (650 £). Vigo’s updated beach regulations for this summer season state that “normal discharges at sea or on the beach” will be considered a violation of health and hygiene laws for anyone caught in the act – something that can prove difficult in the waves of the Atlantic of the city. Instead, municipal officials plan to install public toilets on beaches during high season to meet demand. The city council explains that the rule is part of an effort to clean up local beaches, stating that more portalos will be installed in areas that do not currently have toilet facilities. Vigo Beach Rules also include fines for practices such as using soapy water on the beach or washing facilities such as showers or foot baths, littering in the sand or using a grill, gas cylinders or other fire hazards. However, there is skepticism about whether the northwestern Spanish city could impose a ban on people using the sea for relief. “How easy it is to issue bans and how difficult it is to enforce them,” said Twitter user Pedro L Sierra. Spanish beach resorts introduce new regulatory bans every summer to improve the collective experience.
Prohibition of bare breasts in some parts of the country
In 2014, Torrox became the first of a series of resorts on the Costa del Sol that banned the practice of leaving towels and umbrellas on the beach to enjoy a good spot, with police patrolling and seizing unattended belongings. Spain has put pressure on seafarers this year who fail to change their bikinis or swimsuits while walking on the road. Being topless has also been banned in some parts of the country. “Some local councils will impose fines if you are caught wearing a swimsuit on the seafront or adjacent streets,” says the UK government’s travel directive.
