Barcelona authorities have approved the first phase of a new municipal ordinance that tightens penalties for disorderly conduct. Mayor Jaume Collboni secured the support of several political parties to move forward with the measure, which is set to take effect as early as February next year. The changes will apply to both residents and tourists, who will now be able to pay fines on the spot using a card terminal.
These policy changes come in response to numerous complaints from locals about the behavior of certain individuals and visitors. Officials note that a significant portion of violations are committed by tourists, and the city spends enormous sums to maintain cleanliness and order. According to the mayor, around one million euros are spent each day on cleaning and city services in Barcelona.
Fines and new regulations
Under the updated ordinance, the list of punishable offenses has been expanded and penalties increased. For instance, urinating in public will now cost between 300 and 750 euros if the infraction occurs near monuments or in crowded areas. Additionally, the maximum discount for prompt payment will be just 50%, down from the previous 75%.
Special attention is being paid to tourists: members of the city police (Guardia Urbana) are now authorized to collect fines on the spot using portable terminals. This measure aims to reduce the number of unpaid penalties, which previously often went unenforced, especially among foreigners. To support this, city officials have reached agreements with regional and national authorities to jointly monitor offenders’ bank accounts, even if these are located outside Barcelona.
Crackdown on street disorder
The list of new prohibitions also includes activities such as walking around the city shirtless outside beach areas, as well as hosting noisy parties with items of questionable taste. These offenses now carry fines as well. In addition, vulnerable groups and young people may have the option to replace monetary penalties with community service.
City officials have also tightened measures against street graffiti and drinking alcohol in public. While the fines for these offenses remain unchanged—ranging from 100 to 600 euros—offenders are now required to cover the cost of cleanup. Organizers of so-called ‘alcohol tours’ face fines of up to 3,000 euros, and if minors are involved, each can be fined up to 1,500 euros.
Pet owners’ obligations and street vending
Dog owners are now required to dilute their pets’ urine with water on city streets. The only exception is for guide dog owners. Violations of this rule are also subject to fines. Street vending, which has long caused discontent among locals, will now be penalized with fines of up to €600. For offenders from socially vulnerable groups, the city is preparing alternative penalties.
The draft of the new regulation went through several stages of public discussion and received over two hundred amendment proposals. Some of these were taken into account, largely thanks to the efforts of one political party, whose representatives stated the new rule largely reflects their position. At the same time, some political groups opposed the measure, arguing that harsher penalties do not solve the city’s underlying problems.
Next steps
The document does not yet specify all possible offenses that, according to city authorities, require regulation. For example, the issue of banning public cannabis consumption has been postponed for now; its implementation will require a separate procedure and additional approvals. In the coming months, a separate directive is expected to be adopted to limit the activities of so-called “recruitment agents” soliciting for clubs associated with cannabis use.
The Mayor of Barcelona emphasizes that the new measures are aimed at fostering a culture of respect for shared urban spaces. According to him, most city residents follow the rules, but those who ignore them will now face tougher penalties. Authorities hope that stricter enforcement will help make the city cleaner and more comfortable for everyone.
