Regulations of the Urban Solid Waste Program 

Akumal Norte

As part of the commitment to make Akumal Norte a more sustainable, clean, and organized community, the following regulations have been developed to promote environmental care and proper waste management.

These guidelines apply to all areas of the community: the entrance gate, homes, condominiums, businesses, ecotourism parks, and public roads. They are designed to guide the actions of residents, property managers, service providers, and visitors toward more responsible and environmentally respectful practices.

• Regulations for the Entrance Gate
• Regulations for Homes, Businesses, and Ecotourism Parks
• Environmental Information for Guests at Time of Booking
• Regulations for Environmental Management in Properties

Entrance Gate Regulations

1. Pets
   Pets must always be kept on a leash. Pet waste must be handled using only compostable bags, paper bags, or reusable scoops. The use of conventional plastic bags is strictly prohibited.
2. Wildlife
   Feeding wildlife is strictly prohibited throughout the community.
3. Disposable Containers
   The entry of disposable containers is not allowed, especially those made of expanded polystyrene (Styrofoam).
4. Fishing Refuge Zone
   All fishing activities and the use of fishing equipment are prohibited in the designated marine protected area.
5. Parking
   Parking is only allowed in designated areas. Do not occupy green areas or block pedestrian access.
6. Speed Limit
   The maximum speed limit is 20 km/h. Pedestrian crossings must be respected, and the right of way must be given to local wildlife. Report to the authorities any motorcycles or vehicles that exceed the speed limit or produce excessive noise.
7. Service Provider Access
   Entry of service providers is only allowed during authorized hours.
8. Waste Disposal
   Littering in public areas or natural spaces is strictly prohibited. All waste must be placed in the designated containers.
9. Reporting Inappropriate Behavior
   Any vehicle exceeding the speed limit within the community must be reported to the proper authorities.
10. Noise Pollution
    Vehicles with sound systems exceeding reasonable volume levels are not permitted.
    
    

General Regulations for Homes, Condominiums, Businesses, and Tourist Parks in Akumal Norte

In order to unify environmental standards and promote a more sustainable community, the following actions are mandatory for all properties:

Environmental Best Practices

1. Waste Separation
   All properties must have a waste separation system with three categories: recyclables, organics, and general trash.
2. Environmental Orientation Materials
   Visual or printed guides must be provided to instruct guests and users on the proper handling and separation of waste.
3. Reusable Shopping Bags
   Properties should provide fabric or durable material bags so guests can shop without using plastic bags.
4. Reusable Food Containers
   The use of reusable, collapsible, or foldable containers is recommended for carrying food from restaurants.
5. Ban on Single-Use Plastics
   The use of disposable plastic items such as straws, bags, plates, cups, cutlery, and similar products is strictly prohibited.
6. Resource Efficiency
   Properties must promote reduced consumption of water and electricity as part of their environmental commitment.
7. Coastal Zone Protection
   Seafront properties must install signage warning of sea turtle nesting areas and use only amber or red lighting during nesting season (May to October).
8. Responsibility of External Staff
   Gardeners, contractors, and other service providers must respect designated work hours and remove all waste generated from their activities.
9. Ban on Burning and Toxic Products
   The burning of waste and the use of harsh chemicals in gardens, patios, or any outdoor space is not permitted.
10. No Plastic Bags in Recycling Bins
    The use of plastic bags inside recycling containers should be avoided, except for sanitary waste in order to reduce unnecessary plastic contamination.

Permitted Hours for Noisy Activities

1. Activities that generate noise, such as construction, repairs, or maintenance,  must only be carried out between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
2. Noisy work is strictly prohibited on Sundays and holidays, except in the case of duly justified emergencies.
3. For parties or events with loud music, these must end no later than 10:00 p.m., in respect of the community’s peace and rest.
   
   

Guidelines for Tour Operators in Yal-Kú Lagoon

In order to protect this fragile ecosystem and promote responsible tourism, all tour operators visiting Yal-Kú Lagoon must comply with the following guidelines:

1. Identification and Signage
   Transport vehicles (vans) must display visible signs with information about the ecological importance of the area and the rules visitors must follow.
2. Responsible Use of Water and Materials
   The use of reusable water bottles (thermos) must be actively promoted to avoid disposable plastic bottles.
3. Eco-Friendly Sun Protection
   Only mineral sunscreens (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) are allowed, or alternatively, UPF-rated sun-protective clothing must be used to avoid water contamination and harm to aquatic species.
4. Responsible Insect Repellents
   Insect repellents must be natural or biodegradable and safe for marine and terrestrial environments.
5. Wildlife Protection
   It is strictly prohibited to feed, disturb, or remove wildlife from the ecosystem, both on land and in the water.
6. Waste Management
   All waste generated must be properly separated and disposed of at designated collection points.
7. Environmental Training
   Tour guides must be properly trained in local environmental regulations and are responsible for conveying this information to all clients before and during the tour.
   
   

Environmental Information for Guests at Time of Booking

As part of Akumal Norte’s commitment to sustainable tourism, all properties are asked to share the following information with their guests before and during their stay:

1. Responsible Sun Protection:
   Use of eco-friendly or mineral sunscreens (free from harmful chemicals) is mandatory. Long-sleeve swim shirts with sun protection are also recommended.
2. Eco-Friendly Insect Repellent:
   Preference should be given to natural or biodegradable repellents.
3. Non-Recyclable Items:
   Non-recyclable items such as inflatable toys or rubber footwear must be taken back by guests at the end of their stay.
4. Personal Gear:
   Guests are encouraged to bring their own snorkel gear and take it back with them when they leave.
5. Onsite Waste Separation:
   Properties must have clearly labeled containers to facilitate separation of recyclable, organic, and general waste.
6. Recyclable Preparation:
   Recyclable containers must be rinsed beforehand to avoid contamination and assist in the recycling process.
7. Reusable Bags:
   Houses and condos should provide reusable or cloth shopping bags for guest use, preferably branded with the property’s name or logo for added promotion.
8. Disposable Container Restrictions:
   Avoid bringing or using foam containers, Styrofoam, or expanded polystyrene products.
9. Responsible Food Orders:
   When ordering takeout, guests should request that food be served in compostable or reusable containers.
10. Avoid Disposable Cutlery and Cups:
    Single-use cutlery, cups, and plates should be avoided.
11. Used Cooking Oil Disposal:
    Used cooking oil must be disposed of only in designated containers, never in sinks or toilets.
12. Personal Belongings at Checkout:
    Do not leave clothing, personal items, or non-recyclable trash behind. Each guest is responsible for ensuring a clean and respectful departure.
    
    

Regulations for Environmental Management on Properties

With the goal of maintaining a clean, harmonious, and environmentally respectful urban image, all properties in Akumal Norte must comply with the following guidelines:

1. Each property must have clearly labeled trash bins for separating recyclables, organics, and general waste, both inside and outside the premises.
2. It is the direct responsibility of the owner or manager to keep the area in front of the property free of trash at all times.

3. Owners, managers, and caretakers must ensure that the immediate surroundings, including sidewalks, street crossings, and common areas in front of the property, are kept free of debris, waste, or any abandoned objects that could affect the appearance or hygiene of the area. Construction materials and debris such as cement, concrete, rubble, or related waste must never be left or dumped in front of the property, in the mangroves, or in any public space.

Gardening, Green Waste, and Biowaste Management

To maintain both common and natural areas in optimal condition, the following directives must be followed:

1. Green waste (leaves, branches, clippings) must be shredded or removed by a private collection service. Under no circumstances should it be left on public roads or dumped in green areas.
2. The burning of plant waste is strictly prohibited, as it poses environmental and health risks.
3. For sargassum accumulated on beachfront properties, it is recommended to apply microorganisms to help reduce odors and accelerate natural decomposition.
4. Each property must have clearly identified areas for the temporary storage of organic waste generated from garden pruning or maintenance.
   
   

Responsible Outdoor Lighting

In order to preserve the natural environment and minimize impacts on local wildlife, the following regulations must be followed:

1. All outdoor lighting must be low-intensity and directed toward the ground, avoiding light spill into the sky or sensitive natural areas. This helps reduce light pollution and protects the natural behavior of local fauna.
2. For properties located in coastal areas, lighting must comply with marine species protection standards:
   • Use only amber or red lights.
   • Keep light intensity to a minimum during sea turtle nesting season (May to October).
     
     

Greywater Control and Cleaning Product Use

To protect soil, water sources, and local biodiversity, all properties must adhere to the following measures:

1. The release of greywater from activities like washing, rinsing, or cleaning  into public roads, sidewalks, gardens, or green areas is strictly prohibited.
2. The exclusive use of biodegradable soaps, detergents, and cleaning products is recommended. These should be safe for the environment and not contaminate natural filtration systems.
3. The use of refillable or reusable containers for products like soap, shampoo, and conditioner should be promoted to reduce plastic waste.
4. The installation of biodigesters and/or artificial wetlands is encouraged to allow treated water to be reused for garden irrigation or other green areas on the property.
   
   

Other Agreements and General Provisions

1. Container Donations
   Regarding proposals from Bepensa or similar companies, donations of waste containers will not be accepted unless they conform to the community’s established urban color code.
2. PET Plastic Collection
   It was agreed that all properties will deliver their PET plastic by the middle of each month, so the Neighborhood Association can manage its sale and allocate the proceeds to strengthen the Urban Solid Waste Program.
3. Public Space Contributions and Improvements
   Any community member, business, or individual wishing to donate, build, or install infrastructure in public areas must ensure that:
   • The design and color comply with the current urban color code.
   • The proposal receives express approval from the community and the Akumal Norte Neighborhood Association.