Tourists flying to Spanish hotspot warned little-known law could result in hefty fine
Spain has long been a popular destination for Brits in summer, however there are curfew rules in force and licencing restrictions as local authorities crack down on noise pollution
A British expat residing in Spain has issued a warning to those planning a Barcelona getaway this summer as noise regulations could land you with a hefty fine. Barcelona's streets have traditionally been a vibrant cacophony of diners, drinkers, wandering tourists, street performers and more.
The beloved destination has become a favourite as it is conveniently close to the UK, however it is now witnessing a clampdown on noise pollution along with other tourist hotspots across Spain. The influx of visitors is causing a host of problems, from pricing locals out of historic centres to straining infrastructure. This has sparked a backlash leading to anti-tourism protests across Spain, notably in the Canary Islands and Barcelona.
Noise pollution has been a growing concern for residents over the years, and in an attempt to alleviate the problem, the city council is implementing a number of racket-reducing measures. These initiatives are part of the Strategic Noise Map and the Plan for Reducing Noise Pollution.
"We all generate noise and, at the same time, we can all help to reduce it," stated Ajuntament de Barcelona. A local resident recently took to TikTok to caution: "Barcelona tourists beware! New law you need to be careful of because no one wants a €500 [£423.91] fine and no hotel."
A British expat residing in Barcelona, known to her TikTok followers as Jet Set Gypsea, has shared an essential piece of information for those visiting the city this summer. "There is a new law in Barcelona that you must know about if you're coming here this summer.
If you make any loud noise in the street in central Barcelona after 11pm and before 7am you can get find 500 euros on the spot.
"They can also escort you back to a hotel and the hotel then has every right to cancel your stay and not give you a refund. This is also the case if you are caught urinating in the street, but this is at any time, this isn't just at night."
"And so they should. I can't imagine how annoying the tourism must be out there," remarked a viewer commenting on the video. Another used the platform to remind tourists of respectful behaviour: "It's just common sense. Our cities are not theme parks for tourists to act in ways that they wouldn't act like at home, we expect common sense, decency and to be able to rest."
Local authorities are vigilant about the new rules, ready to impose fines on those disrupting the peace during the quiet hours. These laws aim to mitigate the disturbance caused by noise pollution from residential and commercial properties.
District councils have the authority to intervene and address noise complaints against disruptive neighbours or sources of noise.
Fines for excessive noise can reach up to €3,000 [£2,544]. The council warns that causing a racket or behaving in a manner that disrupts local residents could result in a fine, as could disturbing the tranquillity of locals or pedestrians through singing, shouting, arguing or any other nuisance behaviour.
Other rules enforced in Barcelona
You could incur additional fines if you fail to follow a number of rules, including consuming alcoholic beverages from glass bottles or cans in public areas where it is not permitted.
This could see you slapped with a fine ranging from €30 to €100 [£25 to £85], as per the city council in Barcelona. A similar penalty could be put in place if you consume alcoholic beverages in public spaces where it is not authorised and where it causes a nuisance to people who use the space or local residents.
Discarding cans and bottles on the ground, or leaving them on a public highway, could land you with a fine of up to 500 euros [£424]. You could also face a fine if you cycle with headphones.
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