Beach lovers in Portugal have been warned they could face fines of up to 36,000 euros for playing too loud music. The country’s National Maritime Authority (AMN) has banned portable speakers on the beaches from which loud melodies are played, disturbing residents and tourists.
The new restrictions came into effect just as the peak tourist season began in Portugal at its most popular beach destinations.
How much is the fine for playing music on the beach?
The ruling, announced last month, bans “the use of sound equipment and activities that create noise that, under the terms of the law, may cause discomfort.”
While it is not clear what, if any, loudness is officially classified as a nuisance, beachgoers can file a noise complaint with the local maritime police responsible for the beach they are on.
Fines can range from €200 to €4,000 for individuals and €2,000 to €36,000 for groups. An infringing “accessory” – such as a speaker – may also be confiscated.
The AMN decree also lists other activities prohibited on the shores of Portugal. These include ball games outside designated areas, camping outside approved camping areas, and campfires.
Noisy tourists are being targeted across Europe
This is not the first time anti-social behavior has been regulated on Europe’s beaches. Last summer, Barcelona (Spain) banned smoking on its beaches to protect holidaymakers from secondhand smoke and discarded cigarette butts.
Dubrovnik, Croatia, announced last month plans for a baggage drop system to reduce the noise from wheeled suitcases in its cobblestone Old Town.
Greece has introduced a time-slot system for visitors to the Acropolis in an attempt to deal with tourist crowds, and the Pantheon in Rome introduced entry fees this week.
Many countries, including Portugal, are also tightening restrictions on short-term rentals to fight inflation in the housing market.