The new by-law introduces significant changes to adapt to a more diverse society and more intensive use of public space. The most outstanding measures include:

• Heavier fines and new aggravating circumstances: consumption of alcohol in places where minors are present, up to 1,500 euros; prohibition of pub crawls, up to 3,000 euros; urinating in sensitive spaces, up to 750 euros.
• New types of infringement: promotion of unauthorised graffiti, not diluting animal urine, up to 300 euros; conduct against sexual freedom and dignity.
• Introduction of the concept of aporophobia —hate or disparagement of people with no resources— as a type of discrimination.
• Strengthening of the effective collection of fines, including on-the-spot fines for non-residents to prevent impunity.
• Social and preventive measures: mediation, alternatives to fines for vulnerable people and prevention plans such as the rollout of public toilets.

Better mechanisms for collecting payment

The reform also strengthens payment collection to ensure the effectiveness of fines, currently more than 50%. To avoid impunity, on-the-spot fines will be stepped up for all infringements (minor, serious and very serious) for non-residents.

The reform includes 34% of the amendments proposed in the public scrutiny stage and creates a bi-monthly monitoring commission with the participation of all municipal groups to check that the by-law is applied effectively.

The new by-law can be found on the website for the Pla Endreça.