Camping in Muscat Governorate: Key rules and guidelines to avoid penalties

MUSCAT : The Muscat Governorate has issued an advisory to help camping enthusiasts during the pleasant winter months.

As per the advisory, camping, whether in caravans, tents or sessions for more than 48 hours is not allowed without a permit. An Insurance Payment of RO 100 must be paid – the licence is applicable for seven days and is renewable.

Here are the rules and regulations for camping in Muscat Governorate:

Penalties for violating camping regulations:

. A fine of RO 200 will be imposed for camping without a permit.
. Repeat violators will be removed immediately.
. A fine of RO 50 will be imposed for violating the regulations and requirements.

Camping site requirements:
. It must be in locations as specified by the municipality.
. Leave a distance of at least 10 metres between the camping site and the beach.
. Leave a separation distance of at least 5 metres between each site.
. The camping site should be away from fishermen’s sites and security prohibited sites

Technical requirements at camping sites:
. The issued licence number must be posted on a board on display at the front of the caravan, tent or session.
. Do not use concrete or other construction materials for any purpose.
. Car parking, entry, and exit to and from the site should be organised.
. The licensee may not transfer the licence to a non-licensee, or practice the activity in a location other than the location specially specified in the licence.
. Avoid use sound generators that cause a nuisance to site visitors, and commit to sound- silencing generators.
. Avoid paving or levelling the site with heavy machinery

Special requirements for camping etiquette:
Avoid using the camping or caravan for purposes that are illegal and disruptive to others.
Be committed to follow rules, decisions, regulations and public moralities.

Camping safety and security regulations:
. The camping licence holder is obligated to provide safety and security equipment for each site at all times.
. If a fence is used around the site, it must be made of secure materials that do not prevent the vision.
. Avoid using lasers and upward pointing lights.

For safe and healthy camping:
. The specialised site must be kept clean during the entire period of use.
. Avoid damaging crops and wild plantations.
. Avoid burning or landfilling wastes.
. Mobile restrooms that do not follow hygiene standards are prohibited.
. Do not erect sand barriers or any kind of modifications to the natural environment of the camping site.
. Avoid lighting fires or grilling on green landscapes and beach lands.