The Bulgarian parliament Thursday decided that beaches will remain exclusive state property but left a loophole for their transfer for management to the local authorities.

The MPs began the final review of the much-anticipated Black Sea coast bill which now stipulates that beaches will be managed by the state while the municipalities will manage shoreline fortification and protection systems and facilities. However, through a number of subordinated provisions in several laws, the government will still have authority to transfer beaches for management by the local governments. The regional development ministry is already drafting a list of a hundred beaches that will be signed over for management to the local authorities.

No agreement could be reached Thursday on the scope of the so called inland Zone B where construction will be restricted. Zone A comprises the beach area itself where construction is prohibited altogether. The MPs decided to allow the creation of new and the expansion of exiting population centers or resorts in Zone B under terms that are slightly tougher than the rules currently in effect. The conditions for this type of development in Zone B include allocating 50% of the respective site for vegetation. Another requirement is for the building permit to be granted only if the respective site has the necessary power, water and wastewater recycling infrastructure capacity.