Shells, sand, pebbles, driftwood... You can't pick everything up on the beaches

The use of beaches is free and free according to the Environmental Code. However, picking up sand, pebbles or shells as holiday souvenirs is a practice that weakens the coasts and is regulated by law with fines for offenders.

Indeed, article L.321-8 of the Environmental Code specifies that “the extraction of materials [...] is limited or prohibited when they risk directly or indirectly compromising the integrity of beaches, coastal dunes, cliffs, marshes [...]”.

The sand and the shells

It is forbidden to collect sand on the beach. The Environmental Code considers its removal as an infringement on the public maritime domain, weakening the coastlines. However, it is possible to collect "wind sand": that which has been displaced from the beach by the wind on the road or sidewalks.

The authorities can tolerate collection when it is done in small quantities. An unreasonable levy, sometimes for commercial purposes, is punishable by a fine of up to €1,500.

For empty shells, the restriction is the same as for sand.

The pebbles

On a beach, the pebbles protect the fauna and flora from swell and erosion.

Stacked pebble piles are fashionable but not without danger to the coastal ecosystem.

Gleaning pebbles can cost a fine of €1,500.

Flowers

The marine coastlines have a specific flora that grows only on the seashore and that is classified as protected. Cutting these plants may be worth €150,000 a fine for “harming the conservation of non-cultivated plant species”.

Driftwood

There are no official regulations for collecting water-polished wood brought back to the beaches by waves and tides.

The frosted glass

Sampling is permitted as it contributes to the cleanliness of the beach.

Shellfish

Do you like to pick up live shells and then enjoy them? Whether for environmental or health reasons, ask the city hall because the regulations may vary according to the departments.