PROFEPA Closed Your Construction in Mexico: What to Do, Deadlines and When the Seals Come Off
Updated:
In Quintana Roo, PROFEPA often closes construction without federal environmental impact authorization; in 2025 the press reported several closures of coastal developments in Puerto Morelos for that reason. This guide explains what the seals mean and what you can do.
When are the seals lifted?
There is no fixed term: seals are lifted once you complete the actions and deadlines PROFEPA set when imposing the closure (LGEEPA, arts. 170 Bis and 174). Never keep building or remove the seals: breaking official seals is a crime (Federal Criminal Code, art. 187) and repeated disobedience can make the closure permanent (art. 171).
Deadlines
- 15 days after the inspection notice to respond and submit evidence (art. 167).
- 5 days after corrective measures are notified to propose alternatives (EIA Regulation, art. 58).
- 15 business days after the ruling to file an appeal (art. 176).
The fine
From 30 to 50,000 times the UMA, depending on severity, finances, repeat offenses and intent (arts. 171 and 173). Completing corrective measures before the ruling counts in your favor, and part of the fine may be invested in environmental restoration instead.
Frequently asked questions
How long until PROFEPA removes the seals?
There is no fixed term: once you complete the actions and deadlines PROFEPA set (LGEEPA, arts. 170 Bis and 174).
Official sources
- General Law of Ecological Balance and Environmental Protection (arts. 167-176)
- Environmental Impact Assessment Regulation (arts. 57-58)
- Federal Criminal Code (art. 187, breaking official seals)
- Por Esto!: PROFEPA closes three developments in Puerto Morelos (Jun 5, 2025)
- Ruptura 360: PROFEPA closes 7 coastal developments in Puerto Morelos (2025)