Beachgoers in Sochi can purchase shade for 1,500 rubles on the coastline.
In the popular Russian seaside resort of Sochi, the issue of unauthorised beach service providers charging for shade has come under scrutiny. According to Vice-President of the Association of Tour Operators of Russia (ATOR), Sergey Romashkin, it will be difficult for businessmen to legally justify charging for shade at Sochi's beach.
The Russian Gazette reported on July 25th about a new service at one of Sochi's beaches, where tourists are being offered the opportunity to buy shade under an awning. However, Romashkin considers this a violation, stating that selling shade on public beaches is not allowed under Russian regulations.
The sale of shade at Sochi's beach is not a unique case, as Romashkin's comments suggest that the issue is not limited to Sochi. In fact, Yuga.ru, another news source, reported on the discovery of nine illegally operating beaches in Anapa's disaster zone, indicating a broader issue with unauthorized beach operations.
In Sochi, beach services, such as renting sunbeds and umbrellas, can be legal if provided by hotel or authorized operators. However, unlicensed sales or charging for beach services on public beaches without permits could violate local municipal or federal rules, and offenders might face fines or other administrative consequences.
Eyewitnesses reported that it's simpler to rent a lounger at the beach, but there are penalties for not doing so. When the beach is very crowded, the service of renting a narrow strip of shade is offered, and people who lie down without renting loungers are charged for renting a narrow strip of shade. This service is listed in the beach's price list, with the cost of 1,500 rubles for the service of buying shade under an awning.
Romashkin advises contacting the city administration or Rospotrebnadzor regarding the illegal sale of shade at Sochi's beach. He emphasises that such practices undermine the quality of service and safety standards that tourists expect when visiting Russia.
In summary, selling shade on Sochi beaches is likely legal only if done through authorized entities such as hotels or licensed vendors. Illegal charging for beach services could lead to administrative fines or penalties according to local laws on beach use and commercial activity. However, the specific consequences and enforcement rigor may vary by municipality and the regulatory framework in place. For precise legal advice, local or regional regulatory documents or authorities should be consulted.
To address the issue, tourists are encouraged to consult the city administration or Rospotrebnadzor if they encounter the illegal sale of shade on Sochi's beaches. This unauthorized practice, while being Levied by unlicensed providers, could potentially violate local legal laws on commercial activities in home-and-garden settings, such as outdoor-living spaces like beaches, and may result in administrative consequences.
