Anyone who fancies living on a tropical island like Mauritius will surely dream of waking up to the sound of the waves crashing right outside your window. But what are the best ways to acquire, or even build, a beachfront property in Mauritius?
The 2002 Beach Authority Act and the 1987 National Coast Guard Act state that:
To acquire land by the sea, authorisation from the Beach Authority is required, subject to the land not being in a protected conservation area, not having a negative impact on the environment and not being used for illegal activities.
The National Coast Guard Act 1987 regulates maritime activities along the coast. Owners must secure authorisation from the National Coast Guard, for example to build a protective wall against the sea.
If necessary, a building permit must be obtained from the local council, which will check that the house plans comply with building and safety standards.
Homeowners are also bound by the rules set out by the National Coast Guard to ensure the safety and protection of marine life.
The laws of Mauritius stipulate a minimum distance between the beach and the house, calculated from the High Water Mark.
The distance varies according to the area where the land is located and is regulated by the Beach Authority Act. Property owners must also comply with the Geometric Steps, which are boundaries set by the State to regulate coastal construction.
Complying with the building and safety standards set by the government is important to ensure the safety of the home's occupants and to protect the coastal environment.
Owners are also responsible for maintaining the beach clean and accessible to the public by installing information boards and litter bins and setting up a regular cleaning system.
Following these rules will ensure that you fulfil your dream of living by the sea in Mauritius, while complying with the environment and current legislation.
