No, removing sand from Brazilian beaches is prohibited under federal law, with exceptions only for scientific research or cultural heritage preservation, subject to strict licensing from ICMBio and environmental impact assessments.
Key Regulations for Taking Sand from the Beach in Brazil
- Federal Constitution (Art. 225): Classifies beaches as public assets, prohibiting private extraction without authorization.
- Environmental Crimes Law (9.605/1998): Imposes fines up to R$1 million and imprisonment for unauthorized removal, enforced by IBAMA.
- ICMBio Resolution 465/2018: Requires prior approval from the Chico Mendes Institute for biodiversity-related sand collection, with mandatory ecological restoration clauses.
Local authorities, such as the São Paulo State Environmental Agency (CETESB), may impose additional municipal restrictions, particularly in protected coastal zones like the Ilha Comprida Environmental Protection Area. Recent 2026 compliance shifts emphasize real-time monitoring via satellite imagery to detect illegal extraction, aligning with Brazil’s commitments under the UN Convention on Biological Diversity. Violations trigger administrative, civil, and criminal liability, including asset seizure and mandatory community service in environmental restoration projects.