Local Groups Take Action First
Before national leaders got involved, local organizations were already working hard to stop harmful development in Puerto Vallarta. The Conchas Chinas HOA partnered with Profeco and the Ecology Protection Agency to halt illegal construction in their area. Meanwhile, the Amapas Neighborhood Association (ANA) worked with PRODEUR, the Jalisco Attorney General’s office. PRODEUR confirmed that the city must coordinate with ANA before issuing building permits.
President López Obrador Speaks Out
In a major development, President Andrés Manuel López Obrador addressed the issue during his national morning press conference in Mexico City. Prompted by journalist Judith Sánchez from the Gulf Corporation, the President responded to concerns about irresponsible development in Puerto Vallarta.
Sánchez highlighted the rise of high-rise buildings, especially in Conchas Chinas, where 14-story towers are being planned. These developments threaten the environment, damage the area’s historic character, and shift land use from residential to tourism—all without proper permits.
Government Agencies to Get Involved
President López Obrador responded seriously. He announced he would ask the Secretary of the Environment, María Luisa Albores, and the Attorney General’s Office to investigate. He stated that if any of the projects were illegal or harmful to the environment, action must be taken to stop them.
He also pointed out that although states are responsible for granting permits, the federal government has a role to play—especially when laws are being broken or environmental damage is at stake.
Federal Pressure on State and Local Authorities
López Obrador emphasized the need for coordination between state and federal agencies. While confirming that SEMARNAT (the federal environmental agency) does not issue these permits, he promised that SEMARNAT would still investigate. If developers are violating height limits, environmental laws, or building without permission, the federal government would step in.
“There are regulations, and we must make sure they’re followed,” he said. “If construction is illegal or harmful to the environment, it must be stopped.”
Ongoing Concerns in Conchas Chinas
The Conchas Chinas HOA has identified at least nine buildings that lack proper environmental approval. According to SEMARNAT, permits were never granted for these projects. In one case, authorities even issued an order for the demolition of a multi-story tower.
President López Obrador noted that he is familiar with the area and promised that his administration would follow through. He acknowledged the need for stronger oversight and better coordination to protect Puerto Vallarta’s environment and character.
What’s Next?
- The Ministry of the Environment and the Attorney General’s Office will investigate the projects.
- Federal authorities are reviewing whether illegal buildings can be stopped—or even removed.
- Local groups like ANA and the Conchas Chinas HOA will continue working with national agencies to demand accountability.
The community’s voice is being heard, from local streets all the way to the President’s office.