Rimini, a popular Italian seaside resort located on the Adriatic coast, has introduced sweeping changes for the 2023 season, including a total smoking ban, strict pet swim times, and a ban on single-use plastics. The new regulations came into effect on May 16 and will remain in place until September 20, 2026.

A Total Smoking Ban, Even Under Umbrellas

The most significant change is a complete ban on smoking on all beaches, including the use of electronic cigarettes. This extends to the entire beach area, including under umbrellas and on sun loungers. Previously, smoking was only banned near the water’s edge.

However, authorities have made an exception for smokers, allowing smoking in designated smoking zones, which will be primarily located near beach bars, similar to designated smoking areas at airports.

Strict Pet Swim Times

The new measures also strictly regulate the presence of pets on the beach. Dog owners must adhere to fixed time zones if they want their pets to enjoy the sea. According to the new regulations, dogs are allowed to swim and stay in the water only during specific times:

  • Morning Slot: from 06:00 to 08:30;
  • Evening Slot: from 18:40 to 21:00.

Adios to Plastics, Hello to Direct Food Delivery

In addition to combating smoking, Rimini is implementing an "eco-package" that includes a complete ban on single-use plastics on the entire beach. Only paper or special biodegradable materials will be permitted.

To compensate for the strict rules, local authorities have officially allowed a new perk for tourists: food delivery directly to sun loungers, which aims to enhance service and guest comfort.

With these moves, Rimini joins elite Italian regions like Sardinia and Apulia, which have previously introduced similar rigorous measures to combat pollution and litter that threaten the marine ecosystem.