Maritime Zone Law:Â Fully Titled Beachfront Land in Jaco Beach, Costa Rica
Fully titled beachfront real estate is a rare commodity in Costa Rica. Governed by the mandates of the Maritime Zone Law, or "Ley No. 6043 sobre la Zona Maritima Terrestre (ZMT), most beachfront real estate is considered part of Costa Rica's national heritage and belongs to the state.
Passed in 1977, the Maritime Zone Law defines the first 50 meters from the high-tide mark as the "public zone" and any land that lies more than 50 but fewer than 200 meters from the high-tide mark as the "restricted zone" or concession area. In short, all land within 200 meters of the high-tide mark is the Maritime Zone and it is illegal to develop or build anything in the ZMT without government authorization.
While it is still possible to acquire a concession for restricted beachfront property in Costa Rica, concession rights are only granted to Costa Ricans, Tico-owned companies or expatriates with more than five years residency. The typical concession term is 20 years and features an annual fee payable to the government. At the end of the term, the government can choose to purchase back the property at the assessed value or renew the concession.
There is an exception to the rule however, and that's what makes Jaco so special.
A special condition of the ZMT law was that if a restricted-zone property was bought and correctly registered with the National Registry before the law was passed, then it can be bought and sold freely as fully titled property. Since most of Jaco's beachfront estates pre-date the law and were properly registered before its passing, Jaco has distinct appeal to both national and international investors as everyone can enjoy fully titled fee simple ownership.
Jaco Beach is one of the only places in Costa Rica where you can own a piece of beachfront paradise. This is the case in this project, it was built on beach front land.
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