Safe Beaches 2026: Ministry of the Interior allocates 1.5 million to tackle illegal activities and counterfeiting
Grants of 25,000 euros to 60 coastal municipalities. The funds will be used to step up enforcement in seaside resorts, recruit local police officers on fixed-term contracts, purchase vehicles and launch public awareness campaigns
The Ministry of the Interior is launching the 2026 edition of “Spiagge Sicure” and is allocating 1.5 million euros to strengthen efforts to prevent and combat unauthorised trading and the sale of counterfeit goods in Italian seaside resorts.
Funding for 60 local authorities
The funding, provided under the Urban Security Fund, covers 60 coastal municipalities, selected on the basis of tourist numbers recorded at accommodation facilities and other criteria set out in current legislation. Each beneficiary municipality may be awarded a grant of 25,000 euros.
The aim is to support local authorities most affected by illegal trading during the summer season, when the increase in tourist numbers makes it more challenging to maintain a presence across the area. The funds may be used to recruit local police officers on fixed-term contracts, to pay for officers’ overtime, to purchase vehicles and equipment, and to run information campaigns aimed at citizens and tourists to combat counterfeiting.
Beach safety
The project therefore aims to improve public safety on beaches, safeguard consumers and protect legitimate businesses from unfair competition arising from unauthorised sales.
To be eligible for the grant, local authorities must submit an application to the relevant Prefecture, accompanied by a detailed project plan. The plan must set out the measures to be implemented, the staff and resources to be deployed, the areas affected by the works, and the estimated costs.
