Author: Jeannie G3 (---.asm.bellsouth.net)
Date: 05-22-08 10:37
There are laws in Puerto Rico that grant the public the right to enjoy the beach. Unfortunately, these laws are subject to interpretation (as the law always is) and have been subject to many battles in court. According to the Civil Code, the beaches of PR are properties of public domain (1969), everyone has equal opportunity to enjoy them. It is a requirement, by law, to provide public accessibility to the beach. The tide level area is where the controversy starts. Owners of beach front property claim that their property lines start where the tide is at it's highest, but the tide is always changing! This area called "zona maritimo terrestre" is always changing due to coastal erosion, changing weather conditions, etc. Owners claim the beach as part of their property. If you own beach front property, you must let anyone and everyone through so they can enjoy the beach (this is also part of the law). This leads to other problems. Only access needs to be provided, not other facilities and owners with beach front properties get mad when cars are parked on their property, garbage is left behind, loud music, etc.
I don't think this is a problem with Cayo Norte, no one lives there. You have to get there by boat, so parking on land is not a problem. Even though it is a private property, it is subject to environmental laws. Leave no trace behind, pick up your trash, don't pollute the waters, be careful not to damage coral or other marine life. Let us see your pics and report your adventures if you go there. Happy travels! J
supergarcia3
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