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Maritime Zoning Law for Beach Property |
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A "concession" is defined as the right to use and enjoy a specific
property located on the maritime zone for a pre-determined period of
time. These concessions or leases are granted for five to twenty year
terms, after that time period, it is the responsibility of the property
owner to get the concession re-granted. A yearly fee must be paid to
the municipality for the duration of the lease to keep it current.
Failure to pay may terminate the lease and result in the loss of any
buildings on it.
The Maritime Zone is a 200 meter zone is divided into two areas:
1. Public Area: The first 50 meters measured
horizontally from the high tide line. This zone is not available for
ownership of any kind. Only constructions approved by governmental
entities could be done there. Any individual wishing to utilize this
area for enjoyment has the right to do so. However, no one may trespass
private property or the restricted zone in order to reach the public
zone
2. Restricted/Concession Area: The next 150 meters. This
area is available for Concessions to be granted. An owner of a
concession may build on that concession, subdivide the concession and
perform other acts to the property. However, appropriate permits from
the local municipality must be obtained.
An investment in property regulated by the Maritime Zoning Law requires
extra caution and thorough investigation. Municipality Records must be
examinated to verify the seller's ownership status, general tax and
leasing records. Keep in mind that you are no purchasing the property,
you are leasing it. Even if you get a concession, there are no
guarantees that the concessions will be renewed or that the price of
the concession or the yearly canon will be within reason.
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