Costa News Spain Breaking News | English News in Spain.
BARCELONA has already seen the results of its new civic rules, which were introduced in February to combat anti-social behavior on the streets.
Barcelona City Council released figures showing that 982 fines were issued by the municipal police during the first week following the adoption of the new ordinance.
The updated law came into effect on February 15. It targets behaviour ranging anywhere from public drinking, illegal street vending, to urinating or damaging the urban environment.
The fines for public drinking were the most common, accounting for 36% of all the citations in the first week.
Unauthorised street vending is punishable by 31%.
Guardia Urbana also recorded 20% of offenses as public urination.
READ MORE: How to avoid a fine under Barcelona’s new civic rules – from street boozing and public urination to dog pee and going shirtless
The fines for vandalism or graffiti, or the misuse of public spaces, are smaller.
The city officials claim that the changes were made to address disruptive behaviours, which have long been a cause of complaint in tourist and busy neighbourhoods.
To enforce the laws, the municipal law enforcement launched a large operation in which uniformed police officers were combined with plainclothes agents in the areas with the most incidents.
This is the first major revision of Barcelona’s civic laws since 2006.
Residents and tourists alike are covered by the rules.
The police can now instantly notify non-residents and collect fines to try and stop them from leaving Spain.
The ultimate goal, according to city officials, is for residents and guests to enjoy “a respectful and safe public space”.
Click here for more Barcelona News at The Olive Press.
