Beach surfers, also known as blokarts, are once again permitted in specific areas of Denmark, following a temporary ban in Southern and South Jutland earlier this spring. The Ministry of Transport has issued an order, effective Tuesday, that legalizes the use of these three-wheeled, wind-powered vehicles in designated locations.
The authorization applies to several beaches in Southern and South Jutland, as well as sites in North Jutland and Værløse Air Base on Zealand. Transport Minister Thomas Danielsen expressed his satisfaction with the swift implementation of the order.
According to Danielsen, the primary objective was to streamline the process and minimize bureaucracy. He emphasized that the regulations would not significantly alter the existing framework for these vehicles. He stated that the vehicles in question are specialized and the areas where they can be used are selected, and if areas later prove problematic, then they can be removed from the order again.
Concerns had previously been raised by the police regarding the absence of brakes and bells on beach surfers, features typically required on other non-motorized vehicles. Local residents also voiced concerns about the safety of pedestrians and others in areas where beach surfers operate. However, the Minister believes that stricter regulations are unnecessary.
The order stipulates that beach surfers must be capable of braking safely and rapidly and are prohibited from operating during lighting hours or when wind speeds exceed 12 meters per second. While the order has been subject to consultation, some areas initially proposed for beach surfing, such as Blåvandshuk and Løkken, have been removed from the list, while Saltum Strand and Grønhøj Strand have been added.