Singapore—also known as the Lion City—gained global popularity not only for its exceptional architectural designs and a sustainable urban landscape. The country has also earned recognition for its strict anti-littering laws and regulations, earning it the nickname “The Fine City.” From spotless streets to well-maintained public spaces, these strict regulations help maintain Singapore’s reputation as one of the cleanest cities in the world. Tourists should check a Singapore travel guide before entering the country.
The cleanliness laws apply to everyone in the island country, including both locals and tourists. However, sometimes, tourists who are unaware of these laws face fines that can quickly turn a stress-free trip into a stressful experience. So, before visiting the island country, it’s wise to review a Singapore travel guide to avoid fines.
This blog explains important regulations related to littering, smoking, jaywalking and other activities so you can avoid unnecessary fines, enjoy a hassle-free trip, and return to your homeland with great memories from Singapore. Let’s take a look at some tips from this Singapore travel guide.
Tips for Avoiding Fines and Enjoying Singapore
Tips for Avoiding Fines and Enjoying Singapore
Whether you’re visiting Singapore to explore its beauty, close a business deal, or attend an event for the first time, these tips will keep your wallet safe from expected fines. Let’s have a look at them one by one:
Don’t Litter or Spit
Littering is a serious offence in Singapore under the Environmental Public Health Act (EPHA). If you’re caught throwing cigarettes, a chocolate wrapper, a shopping receipt, rubber bands, tissue papers, or any other object in public places, expect a hefty fine of up to SGD50,000 and imprisonment.
Likewise, spitting in public places, such as in markets, coffee shops, and on the road, is prohibited and attracts a fine of SGD1,000 for first-time offenders.
Chewing gum is prohibited
Singapore has banned the import, export, and sales on chewing gum in the country. Tourists are advised not to bring chewing gum because if chewing gum is found in your luggage or you’re caught throwing it improperly, you’ll be fined. However, therapeutic or dental gum is permitted.
Avoid smoking in prohibited areas
Smoking is permitted in designated areas, but if you’re caught smoking in prohibited areas, you’ll be fined and face imprisonment. Don’t smoke
- Within a building or public transport
- Around the hospital and educational compounds
- Bus stops, bus shelters, bus poles
- Parks, playgrounds, and exercise areas
- Reservoirs, swimming pools, washrooms, including mobile toilets
- Pedestrian overhead bridges
Don’t eat or drink in public transport
Eating and drinking are strictly prohibited in Rapid Transit System (MRT) trains, buses, and railway premises. Violating this rule can result in a fine of SGD 500. If you have any snacks, finish them before boarding.
Respect Hotel Rules
Some hotels in the Lion City follow strict rules about eating food in the hotel rooms with a strong odour. In June 2025, a Chinese tourist faced SGD200 for bringing durian into her hotel room. If food or drink causes damage to the hotel property, you may be charged for professional cleaning or repair. Always read the hotel guidelines to keep yourself on the safe side.
Don’t bring drugs
Singapore has strict penalties, including the death sentence, for drug trafficking in the country. Even carrying a small amount of a drug lead to serious consequences.
Alcohol rules, you must know
If you enjoy alcohol, it’s important to be aware of Singapore’s alcohol regulations. Drinking in public places is prohibited from 10:30 pm to 7:00 AM. Similarly, if you’re under 18, alcohol consumption is prohibited for you as the legal drinking age is 18. However, travellers entering Singapore can enjoy a duty-free concession for liquors if
- You’re 18 years old or above
- You’re not arriving from Malaysia
- The beverage is for your personal consumption
- You’ve spent 48 hours or more outside Singapore
- Comply with the duty-free limit at the airport
Being mindful of these rules will help you avoid fines and enjoy your trip.
Drones for photography
Tourists can fly registered drones for leisure activities, such as aerial photography, but they must follow strict regulations. Flying an unregistered drone or even flying a registered drone in protected areas, or exceeding the permitted altitude, can result in a fine of SGD50, 000, or a two-year jail term, or both. In July 2024, a Chinese tourist was fined SGD12,000 for operating a drone illegally to take aerial shots of Marina Bay in Singapore.
Not flushing a toilet attracts a fine
Don’t forget to flush the public toilet after using it and before leaving the restroom. You must follow the toilet etiquette, as failing to flush a public toilet is considered an offence in the country. If you leave the toilet without pressing the flush button, that small mistake could hit your wallet. You may face a minimum fine of SGD150, whereas lapses in toilet cleanliness can result in fines ranging from SGD1000 to SGD5,000.
Don’t Jaywalk: Stay Safe and Fine-Free
Jaywalking is strictly prohibited in Singapore, and violating the rule invites a fine and embarrassment. Always use pedestrian crossings and traffic lights to stay safe and avoid penalties, even if the streets look empty.
Being naked where others can see you
As a tourist, be careful not to be naked where you can be seen from outside, such as through balconies and windows. Publicly visible nudity is illegal and can lead to a fine of up to SGD2,000, imprisonment or both. Always ensure your private activities remain private to avoid unnecessary trouble during your stay.
Don’t feed birds or monkeys
Feeding cute birds and mischievous monkeys is fascinating for some people, but that fascination could land you a fine of up to SGD5,000 for first-time offenders. Tourists should dispose of leftover food properly instead of throwing it towards animals.
A Singapore travel guide helps tourists enjoy their trip and ensure a fine-free visit. By following these rules, you can save your money on fines and spend it exploring the hidden gems of the country.
