The Formentera beach kiosks controversy has entered a critical phase as new infractions recorded during the 2025 summer season push several concession holders to the edge of losing their licences. The Consell Insular confirmed that it is processing multiple serious breaches linked to the management of beach services, adding pressure to a sector already under investigation for past non-compliance.

168 Infractions Recorded During The 2025 Season

Inspection Findings Reveal A Pattern Of Mismanagement

The Consell reported 168 infractions across beach service authorisations this summer. These violations resulted in €120,088 in fines. Out of 32 authorised beach service lots, only three reached the end of the season without any issues.

The technical inspection report highlights 80 minor, 72 serious and 16 very serious infractions. These include the absence of certified lifeguards, insufficient staffing, unauthorised services, and the reservation of sunbeds in restricted areas.

Chiringuitos Not Included In The Initial Report

The Consell clarified that the report focuses on beach services such as sunbeds and umbrellas, not the beach kiosks themselves. However, the kiosks face their own separate investigations, which remain open and active. Officials confirmed that several kiosks registered serious and very serious breaches.

Three Serious Infractions Mean Licence Loss

Kiosks Already Carry Previous Sanctions

Under current regulations, reaching three serious infractions triggers the loss of the concession. Several kiosks have accumulated enough violations to reach that threshold. The kiosks also face proceedings for failing to dismantle their structures last winter, a requirement under the General Coasts Regulation and the concession terms.

Some concession holders have already suggested they may refuse to dismantle again this year, despite repeated warnings. They argue that dismantling non-removable structures could take three months and cost more than €50,000, far exceeding the current €1,500.01 penalty for non-compliance.

A Growing Administrative Standoff

Regulatory Requirements And Delays

Despite the mounting evidence, the Conselleria del Mar y Ciclo del Agua continues to process the related disciplinary files, which have remained open for nine months. The Govern has acknowledged the issue and stressed its importance, confirming that the sanctioning procedure continues.

Some kiosks hold additional serious breaches that were never processed due to administrative delays. Those violations do not expire, since they fall under administrative concessions rather than ordinary authorisations.

Will They Dismantle This Year?

Kiosks Face Clear Instructions From Palma

Owners now face repeated reminders that dismantling remains obligatory. Any attempt to avoid the requirement will add new serious infractions. Several concession holders travelled to Palma for clarification and received a clear answer: dismantling cannot be avoided.

At least two have confirmed they plan to remove their structures this winter. However, new questions emerge: Will they reinstall the same non-removable structures? Will the new installations meet coastal regulations? And will they avoid previously reported violations such as occupying flood-risk zones?

A Controversy With No Easy End

The Formentera beach kiosks controversy remains one of the island’s most complex administrative battles. With documented breaches, ongoing investigations and contested obligations, multiple concessions now face real risk of cancellation. The coming months will determine whether these iconic structures stay — or finally lose their place on Formentera’s shores.