Revision of the 1991 decree on MELZ management
Anchorage and light equipment zones (ZMEL), which group together moorings for pleasure craft, are currently governed by a 1991 decree. In response to changes in the boating industry and the regulatory context, the authorities are working on a new text to regulate these uses. After a public consultation closed in July 2019, the authorities are working on the final text to be presented to the Conseil d'Etat. The aim is to promulgate it in winter 2020.
Adapting mooring regulations to new needs
" The decree dated back to 1991, almost 30 years ago. It needed to be revised, as yachting had evolved. "explains Xavier Nicolas, head of the Maritime Affairs Yachting Mission We carried out an audit with MELZ managers in 2017-2018. We received very constructive responses from all the coastal facades. What emerged were a few obstacles that sometimes discouraged communes from setting up MELZs. It's almost easier to apply to the State for direct management. A consensus therefore emerged to review a number of points. "
Encouraging MELZs as an alternative to ports
The authorities are keen to develop MELZs. " It's a credible alternative to heavy infrastructures and certain marinas. It responds to the seasonal nature of yachting, with limited investment. "confirms Xavier Nicolas.
This approach has both economic and environmental benefits. To this end, the draft decree more clearly reaffirms the project's reversibility obligation. The concession holder must be able to restore the natural site after the end of operations. " We also took account of landscape issues. "adds Xavier Nicolas.
Open to private managers
Probably the most controversial aspect is the opening up of MELZ management to private players, until now reserved for the competent public authorities. " The aim is to give priority to technical expertise, which is sometimes present in the neighboring marina, while not all local authorities are strong enough to do this. Nevertheless, local authorities always retain a right of priority. "moderates Xavier Nicolas.
Specify the award procedure
The administrative environment has changed since 1991. The new decree specifies the procedure for studying MELZ files, integrating institutions that did not exist at the time. " The Maritime Prefect is consulted first, as he has the overall vision. Then, the institutions are consulted according to the project. The important thing for the manager is to know how he or she will be treated. "explains the Maritime Affairs representative.
To adapt to local contexts, the MELZs will be subject to contractual agreements. " The idea is to move from a prescriptive relationship to a contractual one. For example, the contract could specify the percentage of berths for passing boats or, as the text suggests, the obligation for the boat owner to have third-party liability insurance. "concludes Xavier Nicolas.
