Lanzarote’s Environmental Department has intensified efforts to protect the island’s natural spaces, with more than 100 people already fined during the first half of 2026.
Penalty proceedings rose from 250 in 2024 to 305 in 2025 (a 22% increase) and the Environmental Enforcement Unit has already processed 130 new complaints in 2026. Authorities have also introduced stricter controls over access to protected areas, with fines of up to €4,500 for serious environmental offences.
Cabildo President Oswaldo Betancort remains firmly committed to safeguarding Lanzarote.
“Our commitment to the sustainability of the Biosphere Reserve is unwavering. Protecting biodiversity is an absolute political priority, supported by increased monitoring, greater public awareness, and stronger penalties,” he said.
Vehicle Offences Become the Main Problem
While illegal construction on rural land accounted for the largest share of cases in 2025 (32.1%), vehicle-related offences, including illegal parking and driving off designated tracks, now represent 40.8% of all reported violations in 2026.
The increase has been linked to the growing popularity of tourist buggy excursions across rural areas.
One active tourism company was recently fined €4,500 after operating inside the Los Ajaches Natural Monument.
In a separate operation carried out alongside the Guardia Civil’s Seprona environmental unit, authorities investigated a convoy of six buggies driving through Barranco de Las Piletas in Guatiza without permission. The route passes through an important breeding area for several protected bird species.
The Cabildo is now examining whether buggy excursions should be banned in certain areas due to their environmental impact and the damage they can cause to Lanzarote’s traditional agricultural landscapes.
Increased Monitoring Across Protected Areas
In Los Volcanes Natural Park, visitors have received fines of €1,800 for climbing protected volcanic craters, including Pico Partido, Volcán del Cuervo and Montaña de El Golfo. Parking outside authorised areas can also result in penalties of up to €360.
In La Geria, unauthorised drone flights have led to fines ranging from €360 to €600. Authorities also proposed a €3,001 fine against an individual who skied down a protected hillside.
Elsewhere, the Chinijo Archipelago Natural Park has issued €150 fines for illegal camping on Bajo Risco Beach, €90 penalties for lighting fires, and fines of up to €900 for cycling outside designated trails.
Meanwhile, special surveillance in the La Corona Reserve has resulted in multiple €120 fines for unauthorised access to the Jameo de la Puerta Falsa cave system.
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