Arroyos and Shorelines in Mexico

In Mexico, arroyos and shorelines are considered public property. Arroyos refer to dry washes that occasionally flood during storms, channeling surface water into the sea. Legally, the beach area up to the mean high tide line is federal property, while the next 10 meters is designated as “Zona Federal.” In this zone, land can be utilized under a federal “concession” (an affordable annual rental), but it cannot be owned, and no permanent structures may be erected. Priority for these concessions is given to adjacent landowners; if they do not wish to apply for it, the concession can be offered to others, typically for activities like beachfront use and sales.

It’s important to note that not all arroyos are officially designated, which may lead to uncertainties about their surveyed status or whether they meet legal definitions. Because arroyo flows serve as natural pathways, they are considered the property of the federal government, allowing anyone to traverse them without needing permission from adjacent landowners. However, if the arroyo is small and runs near a populated area, it’s courteous to greet the landowners and politely request permission to pass.