Illegal Vendors Pollute Cancún’s Beaches: What’s Being Done?

Cancún, Mexico — The federal maritime-terrestrial zone of several beaches in Cancún has once again been overtaken by beach clubs, spas, and watercraft rental businesses, many of which block public access and operate without proper permits. The situation has escalated as some vendors not only occupy large sections of the sand to park their watercraft but also use the area as makeshift repair workshops, raising concerns over potential oil or fuel spills that could contaminate the coastline.

Unregulated Operations and Environmental Risks

According to local reports, tourism service providers—particularly those renting "waverunners" (personal watercraft)—have appropriated public beach areas, sometimes restricting visitor access. These businesses allegedly conduct repairs directly on the sand, increasing the risk of hazardous spills. The hotel industry has called on authorities to enforce regulations, impose penalties, and remove violators, as previously documented by REPORTUR.mx.

Complaints have also surfaced on social media, where visitors accuse vendors of acting as if they "own the beaches" and mistreating tourists. Another issue involves the unauthorized placement of umbrellas and lounge chairs across federal land, often cordoned off with ropes and logs, further encroaching on public space. Rental fees for these amenities range from 250 to 750 pesos for two lounge chairs and an umbrella, with higher charges for additional items or premium "beach beds."

Regulatory Oversight and Enforcement

The Secretary of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat) is responsible for verifying whether these businesses hold the necessary permits, while the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa) can issue fines for violations. Profepa is currently conducting the "National Operation in Coastal Ecosystems and Tourist Beaches of Mexico" across 17 coastal states, concluding on April 25.

The operation involves collaboration with the Navy (Semar), the National Defense Secretariat (Sedena), the National Guard, state and municipal police, and the National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (Conanp). Inspectors are monitoring compliance with environmental impact regulations, ensuring legal use of the Federal Maritime-Terrestrial Zone (Zofemat) and reclaimed land (TGM).

This initiative aims to prevent illegal occupation and exploitation of coastal areas, safeguarding Mexico’s beaches from further environmental degradation.