Holidaymakers' camping practices infuriate the mayor of South Tyrol due to disregard for local regulations
In South Tyrol, Italy, the practice of **wild camping** is strictly prohibited, especially in popular natural areas such as Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm)**[1]**. This regulation is in place to protect the region's pristine alpine nature and preserve the local ecosystem.
Despite the ban, there has been an increasing issue of motorhomes and tents popping up in the most beautiful spots of the Puster Valley, causing significant problems. These issues include littering, making fires, and a lack of proper hygiene facilities, with some wild campers defecating in the nearby forest and leaving waste everywhere.
Arnold Schuler, South Tyrol's Tourism Provincial Councilor, emphasized in 2023 that only camping sites and official overnighting options should be used, and illegal camping should be stopped**[2]**. However, it appears that efforts to curb this issue have not been entirely successful thus far.
To camp legally in South Tyrol, visitors should use designated campgrounds or caravan parks that offer proper facilities. One such example is Caravan Park Sexten, which provides a comfortable camping experience while respecting regional laws**[3]**.
It is worth noting that the current rules in South Tyrol allow wild campers to stay at an unplanned location without an explicit ban for a maximum of 24 hours, but they need the permission of the property owner. However, fines for violating these rules can range from 100 to 500 euros.
Municipalities in South Tyrol are demanding stricter laws to address the problems caused by wild campers. Mayors such as Friedrich Mittermair, the mayor of Prags, and Dominik Oberstaller, the mayor of Welsberg-Taisten, have expressed their concerns and desire for stronger enforcement mechanisms against wild campers**[4][5]**.
In conclusion, wild camping in South Tyrol is forbidden, and campers must use designated camping sites or caravan parks. Respect for private property, the environment, and local wildlife is mandatory. Violators can expect fines or penalties, though exact amounts are not specified in the available data. To ensure a safe, legal, and environmentally friendly camping experience, it is recommended to plan ahead and stay within official campgrounds. This also helps preserve the natural beauty and ecology of the region.
[1] Alpe di Siusi: https://www.alpedisiusi.it/en/ [2] Arnold Schuler: https://www.suedtirol.provincia.bz.it/news/2023/04/19/illegale-camping-e-camping-wild-non-e-pi-un-problema-ma-un-rischio-per-la-salute-e-l-ambiente [3] Caravan Park Sexten: https://www.campingsexten.com/ [4] Friedrich Mittermair: https://www.prags.com/ [5] Dominik Oberstaller: https://www.welsberg-taisten.it/
Wild camping continues to be a problem in the Puster Valley, with motorhomes and tents often appearing in picturesque spots, causing issues such as littering, uncontrolled fires, and lack of proper hygiene facilities.
To ensure a legal and environmentally friendly camping experience in South Tyrol, it's important for visitors to utilize designated campgrounds or caravan parks, like Caravan Park Sexten, which adheres to regional laws.
