The Cabildo has opened disciplinary proceedings after six off-road buggies were found driving outside authorised routes in the Barranco de Las Piletas area of Guatiza, in what officials say was a breach of environmental protection laws.
The incident, reported by SEPRONA officers, took place on 14 January. According to the official report, the convoy left an established road and continued along an unauthorised trail and across protected land.
Investigators say the excursion formed part of an organised commercial tour, with participants reportedly paying €180 each to take part.
Cabildo Councillor for the Environment, Samuel Martín, said the authority has a “zero-tolerance” approach to activities that damage Lanzarote’s natural environment or breach conservation regulations.
He stressed that while visitors and residents are encouraged to enjoy the island’s landscapes, this must always be done in a way that protects its unique environmental value.
A technical report included in the case highlights concerns that repeated off-road excursions could disturb several protected species living in the area. These include the Lanzarote kestrel, the Lanzarote barn owl and the endangered Egyptian vulture of the Canary Islands.
The Department of the Environment also reminded operators and visitors that Canary Islands legislation prohibits groups of more than three vehicles from travelling off the official network of authorised tracks in natural areas. Officials say enforcement action will continue against activities that threaten the conservation of Lanzarote’s protected landscapes.
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