Fines and penalties for violations
The Department of Fisheries and Marine Research (DFMR) has announced that violations of the Fisheries Regulations 2026 constitute a criminal offence, carrying fines of up to €20,000 or imprisonment for up to one year. The regulations were approved by the House of Representatives and published in the Official Gazette on 20 March 2026, entering into immediate effect.
Protecting sensitive species and habitats
The new regulations aim to strengthen protection for marine species and sensitive areas. They establish clear prohibitions and measures for both citizens and professional sea users to ensure the conservation of biodiversity.
Key provisions
Under the 2026 regulations:
- Harassment or feeding of protected species is prohibited, along with any activity that alters their natural behaviour, including movement, reproduction, or resting.
- Special protection is given to all dolphins, whales, and the European eel (Anguilla anguilla). For sea turtles, it is forbidden to destroy or move nests and eggs or interfere with protective cages and markers.
- Driving vehicles on turtle nesting beaches and designated protected areas is banned.
- At Limni beach, between 15 May and 30 September, placing beds, umbrellas, caravans, tents, or similar structures is prohibited.
- In the Polis-Gialia marine area (0–10 metres depth), the passage and anchoring of motorised vessels are banned except for small-scale professional coastal fishing.
- Access to marine caves within Marine Protected Areas designated for the Mediterranean monk seal requires a special permit from the DFMR Director.
- Dumping of any waste into the sea, from land or vessels, is strictly prohibited.
Collective responsibility for marine conservation
The DFMR emphasises that protecting the marine environment is a collective responsibility. Citizens are urged to comply with the new regulations to safeguard marine biodiversity and preserve Cyprus’ sensitive marine ecosystems.
Also read: Cyprus reports Turkish violations to UN Security Council
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