Portuguese authorities have clarified beach rules, confirming that the law does not prohibit visitors from setting up personal umbrellas in front of areas with paid sunbeds and canopies.

According to the newspaper Expresso and the Portuguese Environment Agency (APA), beach concessions apply only to areas officially defined by license and cannot occupy more than one-third of the beach. The remaining space must remain public.

APA President José Pimenta Machado said beachgoers have the right to stay in front of concession areas as long as they do not cross their boundaries. Following numerous complaints, the APA is preparing unified guidelines for maritime authorities across the country.