This drastic reduction in fines is due to the new civility ordinance. Previously, officers could almost automatically fine anyone drinking in the street, but now it is necessary to credibly demonstrate that the behavior disrupts coexistence and causes evident disturbances to residents.
The drop in fines for drinking, which were the most common type, has led to an overall 32.7% decrease in total incivility sanctions since the new regulation came into effect.
However, some incivility offenses have increased. Fines for urinating in the street have risen by 15% (3,136 in total), for acts of littering by 310% (1,698), and for improper use of public space by 1,018% (481).
By districts, Ciutat Vella has the highest number of incivility fines with 7,036, followed by Sant Martí with 2,848 and Sarrià – Sant Gervasi with 2,368.
