New regulations define rules for limpet harvesting in Madeira

The Regional Secretariat for Agriculture and Fisheries has published Ordinance no. 187/2026, which establishes the new legal framework for limpet harvesting in the Autonomous Region of Madeira. The measure aims to ensure the sustainability of Patella aspera and Patella ordinaria populations, after scientific studies confirmed the need to reduce extractive effort.

Main changes:

• Closed season: Harvesting is prohibited between November 1 and May 31.
• Minimum size: Set at 40 mm for both species, with a 5% tolerance for specimens up to 5 mm below the limit.
• Licensing: The transition to the digital format is mandatory via the Electronic Sea Counter (BMar), replacing the physical card with a QR-CODE license.
• License limits: Specific licensing (without a vessel) is limited to 18 annual licenses, distributed by zones: Zone A (10), Zone B (5), and Zone C (3).
• Restrictions: Commercial harvesting is prohibited on weekends and public holidays. Family harvesting for non-commercial purposes remains permitted up to a limit of 2 kg per day per person.

This ordinance revokes the previous Ordinance no. 377/2024 and enters into force on April 30, 2026.