Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist
GASPÉ – Theoretically, the Town of Gaspé cannot prohibit motor vehicles from driving on local beaches.
In response to concerns about the presence of a few 4x4s on Douglastown Beach, the Town explained prior to July 23 that a provincial regulation permits fishermen to drive in these areas, creating a regulatory grey zone that limits municipal intervention.
However, the Town notes that barriers are installed when abuse is observed.
Both the Sûreté du Québec and municipal inspectors have spoken with some campers on the beaches to remind them that camping is prohibited.
The Town is urging those who still venture into these areas to stay on designated trails in order to avoid damaging these fragile ecosystems.
Sand couch grass is being planted this year in both Haldimand and Douglastown to protect the shoreline.
However, the context changed on July 25 when the Town of Gaspé issued an update about the situation. The message on the Town’s Facebook page read as follows.
ZERO TOLERANCE ON OUR BEACHES
In response to recent disturbances and blatant disregard for the rules—especially at Douglastown Beach—the Town of Gaspé is tightening controls.
We even discovered that the barrier installed in Douglastown for several years (used in case of overcrowding and left open this year) was removed in the past few days. This is a regrettable act of vandalism.
After an urgent meeting with our partners from the Sûreté du Québec and the Mi’gmaq Nation of Gespeg, a joint decision was made: the awareness period is over and it is not enough.
Effective immediately, SQ officers and our municipal inspectors will issue tickets for any infractions of the regulations.
To be perfectly clear, here’s a reminder of the key prohibitions:
NO CAMPING
Our beaches are not campgrounds. Fines ranging from $200 to $2,000 apply under our bylaw for repeat offenders. For nature stays, campsites are available at official campgrounds in Greater Gaspé: https://zurl.co/X HCZc
NO VEHICLES ON THE SAND
Motorized traffic destroys beach grass, the plant that holds our beaches together and protects them from erosion. This is a fragile environment, not a highway. While some exceptions are allowed under provincial regulations, tickets may be issued outside of those cases.
NO LITTERING
The rule is simple: take back everything you brought with you. Leave the area cleaner than you found it.
These rules are not meant to bother you but to PROTECT our natural heritage. We count on the cooperation of residents and visitors alike to enjoy our beaches responsibly. Thank you for helping preserve the unique beauty of Gaspé.