Portugal’s government is introducing new beach maps to clearly show where visitors can set up their own sunshades, following weeks of confusion and disputes over the use of concession areas on some of the country’s most popular beaches.
The maps will be displayed at beach entrances across the Algarve and parts of the Alentejo coast, identifying concession zones, circulation areas, safety zones and sections designated for free public use. Officials say the measure is intended to provide clear guidance without changing existing regulations.
Environment and Energy Minister Maria da Graça Carvalho announced the initiative during a visit to the headquarters of the Portuguese Environment Agency (APA), saying beachgoers should be able to understand at a glance where different areas begin and end.
The decision follows controversy surrounding the placement of personal umbrellas in front of licensed beach concessions. For years, many visitors believed they could only install their own umbrellas in designated “umbrella zones” unless they rented a parasol or sunbed from concession operators. Authorities have since clarified that no law has ever required such restrictions.
The debate intensified after APA President José Pimenta Machado stated that preventing beachgoers from placing their own umbrellas in front of concession areas amounted to “an abuse.” He later explained that concession areas are limited to the space outlined in each licence and cannot exceed 30 percent of the usable beach area or 50 percent of the beachfront. All remaining space is available for public use, provided safety and access requirements are respected.
Despite guidance issued by the APA to concession holders before the start of the summer season, uncertainty continued among both visitors and businesses. The government has now agreed that visual maps offer the clearest solution.
According to Carvalho, each municipality will prepare maps tailored to its beaches because the layout varies from one location to another. Every map must be reviewed and approved by both the Portuguese Environment Agency and the Maritime Authority before installation.
The initiative follows meetings between the government, the National Association of Portuguese Municipalities, the Algarve Intermunicipal Community and local leaders from municipalities including Vila Real de Santo António, Castro Marim, Faro, Lagos, Vila do Bispo and Grândola. These areas have experienced the highest number of complaints and disputes over beach space during the current bathing season.
Officials said municipalities are expected to install the new signs as quickly as possible, noting that local councils are often the first point of contact when disagreements arise between beachgoers and concession operators.
The minister stressed that the new maps do not introduce new rules. Existing regulations limiting concession areas remain unchanged, while circulation and safety zones must remain unobstructed. All remaining sections of the beach will continue to be available for visitors wishing to place their own umbrellas, towels or other personal beach equipment.
