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Smoke-free beaches in Spain?/ San Sebastian joins the effort for cleaner coasts

2025-10-21 16:41:00, Blog CNA

New beach rules in San Sebastian should come into effect by 2026.

San Sebastian is taking steps to make its famous beaches cleaner, quieter and more enjoyable for everyone. The city council has announced a plan that will ban smoking on all beaches, curb noise from music and loudspeakers and introduce new rules for pets.

Perhaps the most controversial measure is the complete ban on smoking on beaches.

According to a study by AZTI, a Spanish non-profit organization focused on the marine environment and food sectors, cigarette butts represent between 30 and 50 percent of the litter collected on beaches in Gipuzkoa, the capital of Donostia-San Sebastián.

“This updated regulation responds to clear social demand and aims to improve coexistence, environmental quality and collective well-being,” says Ínigo Garcia, councilor responsible for diversity, inclusion and the environment.

The measure is based on a local law regulating waste and contaminated land, which empowers local councils to regulate and sanction tobacco consumption on beaches.

With this initiative, San Sebastian would become the second Basque city to ban smoking on its beaches, after Zarautz, whose ordinance came into effect on October 7.

The new regulations also bring some changes for pet owners.

During the summer, dogs will be able to access the beaches from 9pm to midnight, before the municipality begins cleaning the beaches. This measure aims to give locals and tourists a quieter and safer environment during the day, while allowing dogs to enjoy the sand in the evening.

Previously, dogs were only allowed on public beaches between September 1 and May 30.

The San Sebastian city council will also tackle noise pollution, regulating the use of loudspeakers, music equipment and other sound devices on beaches.

Until now, the guidelines were only suggestions, but increasing complaints have made formal rules necessary, according to the council.

When will the new rules come into effect?

The city is inviting the public to share their thoughts on the new rules starting October 20, with the plan expected to be fully implemented by June 2026, just in time for the upcoming summer season.

With these changes, San Sebastian hopes to keep its beaches a symbol of Basque coastal beauty, balancing recreation, animal welfare and environmental care, while ensuring that both locals and visitors can enjoy the sand and sea in comfort./ CNA