Background & Purpose

The rules protecting shorelines across Sweden have sometimes been seen as too restrictive for rural development and businesses operating near water. The government therefore proposed changes to find a better balance between public access, nature conservation, and local growth.

Proposals & Debate

The government proposed removing general shoreline protection for small and modern man-made bodies of water, while opposition parties submitted around 40 counter-proposals on how shoreline protection should be handled.

The Decision

The Swedish parliament approved the government's proposal for relaxed shoreline protection rules and turned down all of the opposition's suggestions.

Does this affect you?

  • Rural property owners: Will find it easier to build and develop properties near smaller or artificial bodies of water.
  • Aquaculture businesses: Will benefit from more generous rules and exceptions for fish and shellfish farming.
  • Local municipalities: Gain simpler tools to decide on shoreline protection when adopting new zoning and development plans.

In Practice

  • Small bodies of water and modern artificial ponds will no longer be covered by general shoreline protection.
  • It will become easier to build and carry out construction projects in certain areas close to the water.
  • Companies working with land and water resources, including aquaculture like fish farming, will benefit from more generous exceptions.
  • Municipalities will find it easier to decide that shoreline protection does not apply when creating new local zoning plans.