KUWAIT CITY,  Nov 14: Kuwait Municipality’s official spokesman and director of the Public Relations Department, Mohammed Sandan, announced that the municipality has finalized a comprehensive regulation for the upcoming camping season, in collaboration with the Municipal Council. The regulation aims to organize the camping process effectively, imposing strict fines for violations. It establishes fines ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 dinars for individuals who set up a spring camp or conduct activities at designated seasonal camping sites without obtaining the necessary permit from the municipality. Additionally, fines apply to those who camp outside the approved period, which begins on November 15, as stipulated in the Environmental Protection Law, or who fraudulently obtain permits, camp outside the designated areas, or use firearms at the camp site.

Sandan emphasized that this year’s camping season would be different from previous ones, with a new campaign titled “Your Camping is Better with Your License.” The municipality has devised a comprehensive plan to raise awareness among visitors to the approved camping sites to reduce violations of the seasonal regulations.

He encouraged individuals interested in reserving camping sites to access the municipality’s services through the 'Sahel' government app or the official Kuwait Municipality website. There, they can select the “spring camps” option to reserve a site and pay the necessary fees for the permit.

The new regulation also prioritizes environmental protection, prohibiting the establishment of permanent structures using construction materials, earthen barriers, or harmful fences at campsites. Additionally, activities such as digging, transporting soil, or using construction materials like asphalt and cement are prohibited, along with leveling sites with heavy machinery. Waste disposal, burning, or filling waste in the wild environment is also banned.

License holders are required to dispose of waste in designated areas and remove it at specified times. Grazing, hunting, or disturbing wildlife is strictly prohibited, as is any activity that could harm the environment, groundwater, or surface water.

The regulation also mandates the removal of camp waste and the restoration of the campsite to its original condition at the end of the camping season or when the permit expires. Furthermore, camp organizers must ensure fire safety in compliance with General Fire Force requirements.

The regulation is awaiting official approval by the Minister of State for Municipal Affairs. Sandan concluded by highlighting the significance of the spring camp season for both citizens and residents, noting that the municipality is committed to ensuring its success while safeguarding the environment and public safety.