Every summer, the presence of pets on beaches sparks discussions, disagreements, and often misunderstandings between beachgoers and pet owners. Many people encounter conflicting information about whether pets are allowed on the beach or in the sea, leading to confusion about what the law actually provides.

During the summer months, when beach visits increase, questions about the rights and responsibilities of pet owners once again come to the forefront.

Dogs, which often accompany families on summer vacations, are usually at the center of the debate, with many wondering whether they are permitted on beaches and whether they can swim in the sea.

So, what does the law actually say? Where are pets allowed, and what obligations must their owners follow?

The Distinction Between Beach Types

According to Article 19 of Law 4830/2021, dogs are permitted on free or non-organized beaches, both on the shore and in the sea.

However, when outside the water, the animal must always be under the supervision of its handler and must be secured with a leash and collar.

By contrast, on organized beaches, dogs are allowed only if there is clearly visible signage from the legally authorized operator indicating that pets are permitted.

An exception applies to assistance dogs, which are allowed regardless of whether such signage exists. In these cases as well, dogs must be kept on a leash when outside the water.

Special mention is made of beaches that hold the “Blue Flag” certification awarded by the Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature. Dogs are generally not permitted on these beaches, except where legislation provides exemptions for assistance dogs.

What Counts as an Organized Beach?

According to Presidential Decree 71/2020, a “bathing facility” (organized beach) is defined as:

• A properly organized section of coastline, beach, or port zone where people enter—either by paying an admission fee or
• A section of coastline, beach, or port zone that is heavily frequented by the public for swimming.

Owners’ Responsibilities

Pet owners must ensure that their animal:

• Is electronically identified (microchipped).
• Has an up-to-date health booklet.
• Is registered in the National Companion Animal Registry.

Through the pet.gov.gr platform, owners can access their pet’s digital health records and registration details, which may be requested during inspections by the relevant authorities.

Rules for Transporting Pets on Ferries and Passenger Ships

Special regulations also apply to the transport of pets on passenger vessels.

According to the law, scheduled passenger ships must provide special kennels for large companion animals traveling with their owners. These kennels are placed in suitable areas of the ship, at the captain’s discretion, and should be protected as much as possible from weather conditions.

Large pets are not permitted in enclosed passenger common areas or enclosed vehicle decks.

Instead, they may stay in designated kennels located on open decks or in other approved outdoor areas of the vessel.

When moving around the ship, animals must always be accompanied by their owner or handler and must be kept on a leash.

If the vessel offers pet cabins, the animal may remain with its owner throughout the journey.

Rules for Small Pets

The regulations are more flexible for small pets.

They may accompany their owners in both indoor and outdoor areas of the ship provided that:

• They are transported in an appropriate carrier, and
• The ship’s captain approves their presence.

If complaints are made by other passengers, the captain or an authorized ship officer has the final authority to decide how the matter will be handled.

Owners must also carry the necessary documentation, such as:

• The pet’s health booklet or passport,
• Proof of microchipping,
• Evidence that the animal is in good health,
• Vaccination records.

Exceptions

Special exemptions apply to:

• Assistance dogs,
• Search-and-rescue dogs,
• Therapy animals,
• Dogs used by the Armed Forces and Security Services.

These animals may accompany their handler or owner in all indoor and outdoor common areas of the ship, provided they carry the required certifications and are kept on a leash.