As Singapore gears up for TOKEN2049 and the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix, visitors are flocking to the Lion City for an exciting week. Between tech innovation and high-speed thrills, it’s important to remember that Singapore also has some strict and unique laws that may surprise tourists. Here are 10 laws to be aware of that could help you avoid fines and ensure your visit goes smoothly.
1. Chewing Gum: More Than Just a Sticky Situation
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Chewing gum itself isn't illegal, but the sale and importation of most gum has been banned since 1992 to prevent littering and vandalism, particularly in public spaces like the MRT. Therapeutic gum, such as nicotine or dental gum, can be purchased from pharmacies with a prescription. Unauthorized import or sale can lead to fines of up to SGD $100,000.
2. No Littering: Clean Streets or Else!
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Think twice before tossing that tiny wrapper. Singapore takes littering very seriously. First-time offenders can face fines of up to SGD $1,000, and repeated violations can lead to mandatory public cleaning duties, known as the Corrective Work Order. No one wants to be the tourist sweeping up the streets!..
3. Smoking: Only in Designated Zones
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If you smoke, be sure to look for the nearest designated smoking zone. Singapore restricts smoking in public places like parks and bus stops, with fines reaching up to SGD $1,000 for violations. You don’t want to light up where you shouldn’t!
4. Jaywalking: Cross at Your Own Peril
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Crossing the street anywhere but a designated pedestrian crossing? That’s considered jaywalking, and it’s illegal. A first-time offender can be fined SGD $20, but habitual offenders may face more serious penalties. Stick to the crosswalk!
5. Feeding Pigeons: Just Don’t Do It
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Love feeding birds? Singapore does not! Feeding pigeons is prohibited, and you could be fined SGD $500 if caught tossing breadcrumbs their way. The government wants to keep the pigeon population in check—and disease-free!
6. Flushing Toilets Isn’t Just Polite—It’s the Law
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It might sound like a joke, but in Singapore, not flushing a public toilet can earn you a fine of SGD $150. This rule is part of the city's effort to maintain high hygiene standards, and yes, officers do check!
7. No Spitting in Public: Keep It to Yourself
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Feeling like clearing your throat and spitting in the street? Think again. Spitting is illegal in Singapore, and violators can face fines of up to SGD $1,000. So, unless you’re the Merlion, best to swallow it!
8. No Vandalism: Defacing Property Could Get You Caned
Vandalism is a serious crime in Singapore. Whether it's graffiti or any damage to public property, you could face not only a hefty fine or jail time but also caning. Art on the streets is best admired—not applied.
9. Singing Obscene Songs: Keep It PG
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If you’re planning to belt out your favourite tunes in public, choose your lyrics carefully. Singing obscene songs in public places is illegal in Singapore, and if caught, you could face fines or even up to three months in jail. Keep it clean!
10. No Alcohol in Public After 10:30 PM
Image Credit: Straits Times
Planning to enjoy a drink at the beach late at night? You may want to think again. Singapore’s Liquor Control Act prohibits drinking in public places between 10:30 PM and 7 AM. Violators can face fines up to SGD $1,000. Stick to bars or your hotel room after dark.
Final Thoughts
Singapore’s strict laws are a major part of what makes it such a clean, safe, and pleasant place to visit. While some of these laws might seem unusual or even quirky, following them ensures you’ll have a smooth and enjoyable trip—minus the fines!
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