Demarcation of Marine Terrain (Terrenos de Marinha) in Brazil: public lands and integrated coastal management

Abstract

Coastal zone management dates back to the Empire of Brazil, when the Marine Terrain (MT) were instituted. Decree-Law No. 9,760/1946 defines them from the year 1831 Medium High Tide Line (LPM/1831), measuring 33 meters to the side of the continent. This article presents the conceptual evolution of the MT from its legislation, culminating in the modernization of the norm that guides its demarcation. The results indicate that 4,625 km of LPM/1831 have already been positioned, corresponding to 24% of the total coastline, concentrated in urban areas. As fixed non-current assets, the properties owned by the Federal State are valued at 1.3 trillion reais. The MT are located in a strategic position in the territory, constituting a transition between the beach and the allodial lands; they are also a key element in coastal management, inseparable from the beaches, forming strategic territorial reserves for various purposes, especially those related to territorial planning.