British tourists in Majorca could be slapped with a fine of almost £650 as authorities look to clampdown on bad behaviour. Palma previously unveiled new civic ordinance rules which were scheduled to come into affect on Sunday, May 25, laying out bruising financial penalties and for locals as well as foreign visitors.
The levies apply to various issues, including vandalism, street vending, failure to follow scooter-use rules, and more. Also included in the curbs are a tough stance on nudism, both total or partial.
Those caught walking around without clothes or a top beyond authorised spaces like swimming pools or beaches could be hit with a fine of up to 750 euros (around £638.44 currently).
Tourists can also get a fine at the same level for buying anything, including food and drink, from unauthorised street vendors, and carrying out vandalism like graffiti per Majorca Daily.
Users of electric scooter will also have to be able to show proof civil liability insurance, with a minimum cover of €120,000 (£102,159) and wear an approved helmet or risk punishment.
Authorities have also taken a tough stance on “balconing” (the phenomenon of people leaping from one balcony to another), with rule breakers now be subject to to fines up of to €1,500 (£1,277).
Hotel establishments will be assisted by police in immediately evicting people caught doing it.
Among the other rules are a ban on sex in public, streaking, as well as playing music in front of public establishments, historical buildings or assets of cultural value.
A document outlining the rules said they were to “prevent inappropriate everyday actions” and “address incivility in general”.
Danny Toffel, chief exectuive and founder of online retailer Watches2U, advised people traveling overseas that “it’s always worth reading up on local rules”.
“These measures have been implemented to safeguard Palma’s culture and economy and, in some instances, for public safety,” he added, as per Yorkshire Live.
Though buying from street vendors may seem harmless it can hurt local businesses that are operating legitimately.
“Illegal street vendors may also peddle counterfeit goods which again may not seem like a significant issue to many, but violate intellectual property rules and divert money away from legitimate businesses,” he said.
“The message is clear – buy from reputable sellers or tourists could find themselves facing severe consequences.”
People could even face arrests for breaking rules laid out in the ordinance, including those who use of loudspeakers the permission of the local council, engage in parkour, and use lazer pointers.
Pople who urinate or defecate in public also risk arrest.
