The business organization warns that this increasingly widespread situation not only compromises the conservation of the natural environment but also creates coexistence tensions with residents, beach users, athletes, and visitors to the Tarifa coastline.
In a statement released this Thursday, the Federation expressed its concern over the rise in these temporary settlements in protected areas and called for a coordinated response from competent authorities to ensure compliance with current regulations.
The organization advocates for a "sustainable, respectful, and orderly" tourism model, clarifying that its stance is not directed against any type of tourism or against travelers who choose these vehicles. Their main demand is for all visitors to use designated overnight spaces and adhere to the same rules.
The business owners' concern arises amidst ongoing control and eviction operations in these locations. Both Los Carriles and the Los Lances Norte parking area fall under the protection of the Strait of Gibraltar Natural Park, where environmental regulations strictly limit overnight parking and prohibit camping outside authorized zones.
The Natural Space's Use and Management Plan stipulates that vehicle parking between sunset and sunrise is only permitted in campsites or specifically designated areas. The deployment of elements such as tables, chairs, or awnings is automatically considered illegal camping.
Environmental groups have for years highlighted the impact of these settlements on one of the most valuable ecosystems on the Cadiz coast, including waste accumulation, uncontrolled discharge of grey and black water, soil compaction, damage to dunes, and an increased fire risk.
The Civil Guard, Local Police, and environmental agents from the Junta de Andalucía conduct special operations to evict improperly parked vehicles, frequently resulting in numerous fines and evictions. Penalties can range from 30 to 3,000 euros, escalating to 5,000 euros for severe environmental damage.
The Business Federation reminds that Tarifa has legal infrastructure for this type of tourism, including the Tarifa Motorhome Area, the Valdevaqueros site, and existing campsites in the municipality.
"Tarifa cannot normalize the irregular occupation of protected spaces," insist the organization, considering that the protection of the Natural Park and the municipality's tourism development are compatible and essential objectives for the destination's future.
