San Sebastián's new beach rules should be in effect by 2026.
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San Sebastián is taking steps to make its famous beaches cleaner, calmer and more enjoyable for everyone. The city council has announced a plan that would ban smoking on all beaches, curb noise from music and speakers and set new rules for pets.
Perhaps the most contentious measure is the total ban on smoking on beaches.
According to a study by AZTI, a Spanish non-profit focused on the marine environment and food sectors, cigarette butts represent between 30 per cent and 50 per cent of the waste collected on the beaches in Gipuzkoa, the capital of Donostia-San Sebastián.
"This updated regulation responds to clear social demand and seeks to improve coexistence, environmental quality and collective well-being," says Íñigo García, councillor responsible for diversity, inclusion and the environment.
The measure is based on a local law that regulates waste and contaminated soils, which empowers local councils to regulate and sanction tobacco consumption on beaches.
With this initiative, San Sebastian would become the second Basque town to ban smoking on its beaches, after Zarautz, whose ordinance came into force on 7 October.
Pet-friendly beaches without noise pollution
The new regulations also introduce some changes for pet owners.
During the summer, dogs will be able to access the beaches from 9 pm to midnight, before municipal beach cleaning begins. This measure aims to give locals and tourists a quieter, safer daytime environment while still letting dogs enjoy the sand in the evening.
Previously, dogs were only allowed on public beaches between 1 September and 30 May.
The San Sebastian city council will also tackle noise pollution, regulating the use of loudspeakers, music players and other sound devices on the beaches.
Until now, guidelines were just suggestions, but growing complaints have made formal rules necessary, according to the council.
When will the new rules come into force?
The city is inviting the public to share their thoughts on the new rules starting 20 October, with the plan expected to be fully implemented by June 2026, just in time for the next summer season.
With these changes, San Sebastián hopes to keep its beaches a symbol of Basque coastal beauty, balancing recreation, animal welfare and environmental care, while also making sure that both locals and visitors can enjoy the sand and sea in comfort.
