Singapore has a new rule that could cost tourists $5,500. Here's what you need to know

Singapore has introduced new penalties for disruptive behavior on public transportation, with serious offenses potentially attracting fines of up to 5,000 Singapore dollars, or around $5,500, according to CNN.

The city-state is one of the world's most visited destinations, welcoming about 17 million visitors last year. Authorities are now stepping up efforts to ensure that public transport remains clean, orderly and comfortable for passengers.

According to the report, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) has introduced the penalties as part of a broader crackdown on behavior that can disturb fellow commuters. This includes playing loud music, having conversations on speakerphone, littering and improper use of seats.

Singapore's new public transport fines

Under the new rules, passengers could face fines of up to 500 Singapore dollars (about $560) for behavior that causes annoyance to other commuters.

Examples include playing audio at high volume, putting feet on seats, and eating or drinking on public buses. For more serious offenses, fines can reach 5,000 Singapore dollars, equivalent to approximately $5,500.

“Public transport is a shared space, and every commuter has a part to play in ensuring a gracious and pleasant commuting environment,” the LTA said in its announcement regarding the penalties.

The approach builds on rules already in place across Singapore's subway system and reinforces expectations for passenger behavior across different forms of public transportation.

Why is Singapore cracking down on disruptive behavior?

Singapore has long been known for its strict regulations covering public cleanliness and social order. The latest penalties are part of a broader effort to maintain a respectful environment on public transportation.

Similar efforts are being seen in other major cities too. For instance, in London, authorities have launched campaigns encouraging better etiquette on the Tube. A Transport for London poll found that around 70% of transit users considered loud music or conversations without headphones disruptive.

Other cities, including Beijing, Kraków and Toronto, have also introduced restrictions on playing loud audio without headphones, although enforcement varies. In France, a man was reportedly fined around $200 after making a loud phone call on speaker at a train station and refusing requests to lower the volume.

Other Singapore rules tourists should know

The public transport penalties are not the only rules visitors should be aware of when traveling to Singapore.

Singapore is famous for its restrictions on chewing gum, which have been in place since 1992. Chewing gum itself is not generally illegal for ordinary consumers, but importing and selling it are heavily restricted, and littering rules are strictly enforced.

Singapore has also some of the world's strictest drug laws. Visitors should be particularly careful because possession and consumption of controlled substances can result in severe criminal penalties.

In Singapore, smoking is permitted only in designated areas. E-cigarettes and vaping products are also subject to strict restrictions, and visitors should not assume that rules governing them are the same as in their home country.

Singapore also imposes penalties for various forms of public misconduct, including littering and spitting. Jaywalking can also attract penalties in certain circumstances.