The 2026 summer season is approaching, and the Council of Ministers has approved two changes that directly affect beach station operators. With Government Decree No. 346, dated May 13, 2026, Amendments have been made to the regulation that sets the conditions and criteria for operating a beach station.
There are two changes. The first extends the deadline for signing lease agreements only for this year. The second opens up the possibility of amending contracts, both new and existing, when operating conditions change.
For operators who have not yet finalized their contracts, or who have changes in accommodation capacity or in the coastal area where they operate, time to act is limited. The deadline is within June.
Read also Beach stations and public spaces: what every operator needs to know
New deadline for signing lease agreements
Exceptionally for 2026, the deadline for signing lease agreements for the use of beach stations is within the month of June. This is a practical facilitation that acknowledges the reality of operators and the pace of organizing the summer season.
The deadline applies to all new contracts to be entered into between the grantor and the operator for the use of the beach area during the 2026 season.
Operators who do not comply with this deadline risk being left without a legal basis to operate during the season. For this reason, it is essential that the documentation be finalized by June 30.
Amendment of contracts by mutual consent
The second change introduces two new points in the model contract used for the use of beach space.
The first new point recognizes the right of the grantor, in cooperation with the local self-government unit, to propose amendments to the contract. This applies in cases where the capacity of the accommodation facility changes, the beach area changes, or there are developments in the coastal zone. Any amendment requires the mutual consent of both parties.
The second point specifies that the same rule applies to existing contracts that have already been entered into. Changes are made by signing an amendment to the contract, again with mutual consent.
This is a step that brings operational flexibility. Contracts are no longer rigid and can be reviewed when objective conditions change.
What you need to do as an operator
Three concrete steps to take action within the timeframe.
First, check the status of your current contract or initiate the new procedure. If you do not have a contract in place for the 2026 season, contact the grantor and the local self-government unit immediately to finalize the documentation.
Secondly, assess whether any changes have occurred in your accommodation's structure, its capacity, or the beach area you use. If so, and if you have an existing contract, you may request an amendment under the new rules.
Third, document every communication and agreement in writing. Mutual consent should be reflected in a formal amendment to the contract, not in a verbal agreement.
Why it Matters
Beach resorts are one of the main elements of the Albanian tourist season. Their legal regulation directly affects the operations of hundreds of coastal businesses during the peak months.
The June deadline extension acknowledges the real-world practices of seasonal organizing and avoids situations where operators find themselves without a contract at the moment they need to open for business.
The ability to amend existing contracts is also a relief. Many businesses have invested in expansions, increased their accommodation capacity, or faced changes in the area where they operate. Now these realities can be formally reflected in their contracts.
Frequently asked questions
What is the exact deadline for signing the beach station contracts in 2026?
Exceptionally for 2026, the deadline is within June 2026. After that date, new contracts for the season cannot be entered into under the rule set forth in the regulations.
Do the new rules on amendments also apply to contracts entered into previously?
Yes. Government Decree No. 346/2026 It expressly specifies that the rules for amendments apply to both new and existing contracts. Any amendment requires the mutual consent of both parties.
What kinds of changes can be reflected in amending the contract?
There are three main categories: changes to the capacity of the accommodation structure, changes to the beach area used, and developments in the coastal area that affect the contract.
Can amendments be made by verbal agreement?
No. Changes are made by signing a formal amendment to the contract. Mutual consent must be documented in writing to have legal effect.