Yes, collecting sea glass in Costa Rica is generally permitted on public beaches, provided it adheres to environmental protection laws enforced by the Sistema Nacional de Áreas de Conservación (SINAC) and the Ministerio de Ambiente y Energía (MINAE). However, restrictions apply in protected zones and during turtle nesting seasons. Recent 2026 compliance shifts emphasize stricter oversight in biodiversity-rich coastal areas.
Key Regulations for Collecting Sea Glass in Costa Rica
- Protected Areas Ban: Collection is prohibited in national parks, wildlife refuges, and biological reserves, as designated by SINAC. Violations may incur fines up to ₡5 million ($8,500 USD) under Ley de Biodiversidad (Ley 7788).
- Turtle Nesting Season: From July to December, collecting on beaches with active turtle nesting (e.g., Tortuguero, Ostional) is restricted to prevent habitat disturbance, per Decreto Ejecutivo 37800-MINAE.
- Commercial Limits: Selling collected sea glass requires permits from MINAE, with quotas enforced to curb overharvesting. Local municipalities may impose additional municipal-level restrictions.