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Watch out for traffic fines on Costa Rican beaches



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Published on Thursday, January 16, 2025
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff



As more people flock to the beaches during the high tourism season from December 2024  to June 2025, traffic fines for violations are rising.


According to the Traffic Police, the most common infractions on the beaches include driving or parking on the sand and the irresponsible use of jet skis.


Under Traffic Law regulations, vehicles such as cars, SUVs, motorcycles, quad bikes, and trucks are prohibited from accessing beach areas. Drivers who violate this rule face fines of $125.


An exception is made for vehicles entering the beach with permission from the General Directorate of Traffic, typically for tasks such as delivering fishing supplies, launching or retrieving boats, or emergencies.


Improper use of personal watercraft (jet skis) is also subject to fines.


The law prohibits operating a jet ski within 50 meters of people in the water to avoid accidents, including collisions. Additionally, jet skis are banned within 30 meters of ships, boats, or inflatable recreational items like water sleds.








Jet ski operators must wear life jackets, and the use of jet skis
is prohibited for anyone under the age of 16. The law also limits jet skis to a maximum engine capacity of 400 cubic centimeters.



Drivers who violate any of these rules face fines of $125.



Police urges tourists to follow traffic regulations to avoid penalties and accidents.



Anyone witnessing a traffic violation on the beach can report it by calling 9-1-1.


Traffic fines were reduced this year after the Court Superior Council approved adjustments based on the Consumer Price Index.



Authorities also recommended that tourists take basic safety precautions when taking boat trips on rivers, lakes, or oceans to reduce the risk of accidents.



Tourism is a vital sector of Costa Rica’s economy. As of July 2024, over 1.7 million tourists arrived by air, marking a 13.5% increase compared to the same period in 2023.



The country set a tourism record in 2023, welcoming more than 2.4 million visitors.



The Traffic Police operates under the Ministry of Public Works and Transportation (MOPT) and is responsible for enforcing traffic laws.



 

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What have you heard about expats being fined for violating driving laws at the beach? We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com



  


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