Authorities to ban summer building in resorts

Albania’s ruling party has proposed a new law to ban summer construction and guarantee free public access to beaches.

Under the draft rules, the government can halt building work in resort areas during the peak holiday season to avoid disturbing visitors. Authorities will issue fines of around €20,000 to violators, while extending building permits to make up for the lost time.

The bill also targets private beach operators who block walkways to the sea. Businesses that build fences, walls, or barriers to restrict public coastal access will face fines of around €2,000.

In addition, developers must secure a tourism quality certificate before building new hotels. Accommodation owners must also register all guests electronically to help fight the informal economy and improve national tourism data.