Maritime Zone Concessions
Objectives
- Explain the Maritime Zone regime
- Distinguish ownership from concession
- Advise foreign buyers on restrictions
Explanation
Under Law 6043, the first 50 metres from the high-tide line are public zone (inalienable). The next 150 metres form the restricted zone, granted by municipalities as concessions, not ownership. Foreign nationals face restrictions on holding majority interests in concessions (e.g., residency requirements and limits for companies). Never describe a concession as 'title'.
concession
A government grant of the right to use public land for a period.
“The hotel holds a 20-year concession.”
public zone
The first 50 m from high tide; it cannot be owned.
“No one can build in the public zone.”
restricted zone
The 150 m strip after the public zone, granted by concession.
“The lot is in the restricted zone.”
high-tide line
The line reached by the highest ordinary tide.
“Measurements start at the high-tide line.”
coastal zoning plan
Municipal plan regulating land use on the coast (plan regulador costero).
“A concession requires an approved coastal zoning plan.”