Spanish officials are investigating Katy Perry for allegedly filming a music video in ecologically sensitive sand dunes in the Balearic Islands without proper authorization.
The video for “Lifetimes” features scenes of the singer enjoying the beaches and nightlife of Ibiza and Formentera.
However, it has come to light that some of the footage was shot in the protected dunes of the island of S’Espalmador, raising environmental concerns.
The Spanish government has claimed that the production company behind the video did not obtain the necessary permissions.
A spokesperson for Perry’s label stated that “the local video production company assured us that all required permits for the video were secured” and that they had “verbal authority” to proceed with the filming.
Officials clarified that Katy Perry is not being investigated for “crimes against the environment,” as filming in the area can be authorized.
The Balearic Islands’ environment department released a statement on Tuesday, noting that the production company failed to secure proper authorization before filming began, prompting “preliminary investigation actions.”
S’Espalmador, an uninhabited islet situated to the north of Formentera and about 1.8 miles long, has been part of the Ses Salines de Ibiza and Formentera natural park since 1980.
The dunes on this privately owned island are recognized for their significant ecological value.
The department highlighted a section of the Natural Resources Management Plan, which stipulates that “photographic, cinematographic or videographic” projects intended for “advertising or commercial exhibition” require explicit authorization from the ministry of the environment.
A spokesperson for Katy Perry said, “The local video production company assured us that all necessary permits were in place. We later learned that one permit was still in process, although we had received verbal permission to proceed.”
The spokesperson added that the local crew applied for the permit on July 22 with the Directorate-General For Coasts And Coastline, receiving verbal approval on July 26 to film on July 27.
They emphasized adherence to all regulations and respect for the location and its protectors.
This controversy follows a challenging period for Katy Perry, who is set to release her seventh album, *143*, in September.
The album’s lead single, “Woman’s World,” was met with critical disapproval and failed to achieve chart success, with reviews describing it as out of touch and uninspired.
“Lifetimes,” the follow-up single, was produced by Dr. Luke, who has faced criticism due to past allegations from singer Kesha.
Kesha’s 2014 lawsuit accused Dr. Luke of severe abuse, though he denied the allegations. The lawsuit was settled last year.
