Help Shape Playa del Carmen’s New Cenote Rules

Playa del Carmen, Mexico — Fernando Muñoz, the city’s eighth council member and president of the Tourism and Environment Committees, has launched a public invitation for citizens, local organizations, and civil society representatives to contribute to updating the municipality’s cenote regulations. The regulations guide how cenotes—natural limestone sinkholes central to the region’s ecosystem and heritage—are used, protected, and managed.

Muñoz noted that work began approximately one month ago to address the protection of cenotes and caverns, though the tourism-related provisions—which include regulations for high-value water bodies frequented by visitors—remain under review.

“The goal is to update the regulations in a way that satisfies the public and ensures responsible conservation and use of these attractions,” Muñoz stated.

Muñoz acknowledged that several regulations in Ecology and Environmental matters will require substantial revisions, a process expected to take additional time. However, in the tourism sector, the municipality will build upon progress made by former council member Anaiza Quiam Medina during the previous administration, with only minor adjustments remaining.

The call for public participation underscores the local government’s effort to balance environmental preservation with sustainable tourism development.

Why This Matters to Everyone

Cenotes are fragile ecosystems filled with crystal-clear groundwater. They’re vital for both ecological balance and tourism—serving as sanctuaries for local biodiversity and popular attractions for divers and swimmers. Updating the regulations ensures a balance between conservation and sustainable use, especially in key tourist corridors along the Riviera Maya, which was previously scrutinized for environmental impacts from Tren Maya construction.

How You Can Get Involved

• Join public consultations to voice your thoughts on the regulatory updates. These forums help residents shape safe, sustainable tourism practices.
• Partner with civil organizations such as Cenotes Urbanos or Centinelas del Agua A.C., which lead citizen science, public education, cleaning campaigns, and conservation initiatives.
• Volunteer for cleanup efforts and biodiversity monitoring under the Yucatán state’s Recovery Strategy for Cenotes and Caves (ERICGEY). More than 21 tons of waste have already been removed from over 90 cenotes, benefiting ecosystems and communities.
• Engage in educational projects like the Yucatec Cenotes Project, which trains students and educators to teach future generations about the cultural and ecological importance of cenotes through interactive, hands-on learning.

By inviting public participation, the municipality aims to align tourism growth with ecological stewardship. Updated cenote regulations can protect water quality, preserve cultural heritage, and empower local communities—ensuring visitors enjoy Cenote treasures responsibly long into the future.