Inspectors shut down a popular camp in Dalmatia

Authorities in Croatia have shut down a popular illegal camp in Dalmatia, dismantling 126 mobile homes and removing approximately 700 guests from the site near Draga, near Pakoštane. The operation took place over three days, starting Monday through Wednesday, according to reports from Croatian media including Večernji list. The camp, known online as Camp Heron or the Village Homes Drage project, had marketed itself as a real estate investment opportunity and a tourist accommodation option, despite lacking the necessary approvals from the Ministry of Tourism and Sport. The closure was part of a broader crackdown on unauthorized camps across Croatia. According to state inspectors, the site did not just include the 126 mobile homes but also revealed further unauthorized structures, 138 modular prefabricated buildings. These were identified during inspections conducted by the building inspection authority, which confirmed that the investor had not obtained permits for their construction. Following the completion of administrative procedures, officials will decide whether these additional structures should be removed. The camp had been promoting itself as a viable business venture, offering potential buyers mobile homes and plots of land along with organized transportation and installation services. However, its operations fell outside legal boundaries, as it lacked proper authorization for such commercial activities. The authorities emphasized that the site was operating without the required licenses, making it a violation of local regulations. This incident is part of a larger campaign by Croatian authorities to address illegal camping practices. From mid-April to mid-August, state inspectors carried out 2,069 inspections nationwide, uncovering eight unauthorized camps. The total fines imposed on offenders amounted to 142,000 euros, according to reports from Croatian public broadcaster HRT. In addition to financial penalties, authorities warned that some individuals might face the confiscation of illegally acquired assets. The closure of this particular camp has raised concerns among locals and visitors who had relied on such sites for temporary stays. Some residents of the area expressed frustration over the lack of oversight, while others welcomed the move as a necessary step toward enforcing legal standards. Local officials reiterated that the focus would remain on ensuring compliance with existing laws and protecting the interests of legitimate businesses. In recent months, similar actions have taken place in other parts of Croatia, particularly around the Prevlaka Peninsula, where inspectors have repeatedly targeted unauthorized camps. Authorities have stressed the importance of maintaining order and preventing the proliferation of unregulated developments that could harm both the environment and tourism industry. The situation highlights ongoing challenges faced by Croatian regulators in monitoring remote areas where enforcement can be difficult. Despite increased efforts to conduct inspections and impose penalties, experts suggest that more comprehensive measures may be needed to prevent future violations. For now, the focus remains on completing the current administrative processes and determining the fate of the remaining structures at the recently closed camp.