Romanian seaside resorts introduce rules for noise levels, street trade

The local council of the Limanu Comune recently introduced a set of rules concerning commercial activities in the area, Mediafaxreported. The rules cover requisites concerning among others, noise levels, street trade or the look of the terraces and bars. The Limanu Comune encompasses two of Romania’s most popular seaside resorts: 2 Mai and Vama Veche. Except for areas dedicated to entertainment, the rules limit the noise level to the legal ones, meaning 75 decibels for halls without an orchestra, 90 decibels for halls with an orchestra, 70 decibels outside, in the functioning area, and 65 decibels at the limits of the functioning area. At the same time, the audio amplifiers inside a commercial location need to be turned towards the inside of the respective location. In the case of beach bars, the amplifiers need to be turned towards the sea, and these units also need to obtain an authorization for providing food services. The rules also cover the look of the commercial units in the area, which need to use furniture made of wood, wrought iron or quality plastic. The furniture colors need to be ultramarine blue, aquamarine blue, light cream, or brown tones from the lighter to the darker ones. Rustic furniture is only accepted in Vama Veche, where an opening schedule will not be set, provided that noise-related regulations are followed. According to the new set of rules, begging or similar fund-raising activities are forbidden in public areas or in areas with public access. In walking areas, such as the promenade, small trade is forbidden, as is trade with beach items, toys, fruits or vegetables. The businesses not following the rules can receive fines worth between RON 1,000 (approximately EUR 222) or RON 2,500 (EUR 555), or have their functioning authorization suspended or annulled. In order to receive an authorization, regardless of the services they provide, businesses need to close a contract with the Limanu Community Service for Local Public Interest Utilities. The local authorities say the new rules centralize conditions that any business should fulfill, and are meant to be guidelines for both the authorities and the services providers. Romania’s seaside resort Constanta could host a festival similar to Untold editor@romania-insider.com