Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ)

Goa has a coastline of 105 kms, with the Arabian Sea to its West. The coastline is dotted with beaches that draw tourists from the world over.

As per the Environment Protection Act 1986, The Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) issued a notification in February 1991 for regulation of activities in the coastal area. As per the notification, coastal land up to 500m from the High Tide Line (HTL) and 100m along banks of creeks, estuaries, backwater and rivers subject to tidal fluctuations has been declared as the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ).

All ‘constructions/developments’ (including houses, hotels and resorts) located within 500 mts. of the High Tide Line (HTL) along the sea coast and within 100 mts. (or the width of the water body, whichever is less) of the HTL on the banks of rivers/ creeks/ backwaters’’ influenced by tidal action require prior clearance under the CRZ Notification of 1991.