Northern Morocco authorities crack down on illegal beach activities before summer rush

Authorities in northern Morocco have launched early preparations for the summer tourism season, including sweeping campaigns to clear beaches and coastal areas of unauthorized activities and illegal occupation of public spaces.

According to local Hespress AR sources, officials in the Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region have instructed local administrators to intensify monitoring operations across beaches and nearby tourist zones as part of broader efforts to improve the region’s image ahead of the busy summer months.

The directives were reportedly issued by regional governor Younes Tazi and call for the removal of unlicensed commercial activities and what authorities described as chaotic use of public coastal spaces.

The city of Tangier, considered the region’s main tourism hub, has already witnessed the first enforcement operations along its seafront promenade, where authorities confiscated chairs, carts and horses used in unauthorized activities.

Local officials said the campaign aims to eliminate disorder along beaches and tourist areas to improve conditions for visitors after repeated complaints from residents and tourists during previous summer seasons.

Authorities are also expected to review permits granted to businesses operating near beaches and promenades, including mobile coffee vendors and fast-food operators, in an effort to tighten regulations and better organize commercial activity.

The measures come amid attempts to avoid a repeat of controversies seen last year, when unauthorized construction projects, including a beachside café and restaurant near Tangier, sparked public criticism before authorities later ordered their demolition.

Northern Morocco has become one of the country’s most popular summer destinations in recent years, attracting thousands of Moroccan and foreign tourists to its Mediterranean and Atlantic beaches each year.

The influx of visitors regularly causes heavy congestion across coastal cities during the peak holiday season, increasing pressure on local authorities to maintain public order and manage public spaces.