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In recent years, there has been a growing problem of illegally occupied beaches in Greek islands. This is when beach bars and other businesses rent out space on the sand for umbrellas and sunbeds, but then expand their occupation beyond the allocated area. In some cases, they even completely block access to the beach. This is a problem for two reasons. First, it deprives beachgoers of their right to access the beach. Second, it can lead to safety concerns, as people are forced to walk along narrow pathways or even swim to get to the water. There are a few different ways that this problem occurs. In some cases, the businesses have legally rented space on the sand, but then they expand their occupation illegally. In other cases, they are operating completely illegally, without any permission from the municipality. If you are denied access to a beach by a beach bar or other business, you should first try to speak to the manager. If that does not work, you should contact the municipality or the coast guard. You can also submit a complaint to the Greek Consumer Union. The Greek Consumers and Borrowers Association is a non-profit consumer union recognised by the Greek Government, that advocates for the rights of consumers. They can help you to file a complaint against a beach bar or other business that is illegally occupying a beach. By reporting these illegal occupations, we can help to ensure that everyone has the right to enjoy the beaches of Greece. What to do if you are denied access to a beach Try to speak to the manager of the beach bar or other business. Explain that you are a customer and that you would like to access the beach. If the manager is not helpful, contact the municipality or the coast guard. They can investigate the matter and take action against the business. Submit a complaint to the Greek Consumer Union. They can help you to file a complaint and represent you in court, if necessary. What are the legal regulations on beach occupation? The Greek government has a number of regulations governing the occupation of beaches. These regulations are designed to ensure that everyone has the right to access the beach, and that businesses do not occupy more space than they are entitled to. The regulations vary from island to island, but they generally state that businesses are only allowed to occupy a certain percentage of the beach. They are also required to leave a certain distance between the water and their occupation. If a business is found to be in violation of the regulations, they can be fined or even have their license revoked. How can I help to prevent illegal beach occupations? There are a few things that you can do to help to prevent illegal beach occupations. Be aware of the regulations. Know how much space businesses are allowed to occupy, and how far they are required to stay from the water. Report illegal occupations to the authorities. If you see a business that is occupying more space than they are entitled to, report it to the municipality or the coast guard. Support businesses that are following the regulations. When you are on the beach, choose to patronize businesses that are not occupying more space than they are entitled to. By taking these steps, we can help to ensure that everyone has the right to enjoy the beaches of Greece.