Heftier fines for vandalism, public drinking and urination in Barcelona

The Barcelona council, which as of mid-June is headed by the Socialist Jaume Collboni, has increased fines for spray painting as well as drinking or urinating in public from this Friday.

The move is part of the local authorities' new Pla Endreça ('Tidy-up Plan'), reminiscent of the broken windows theory, which aims to improve perceptions of cleanliness and insecurity to in turn promote civic values.

"The Pla Endreça entails limiting invasive activities in public spaces," deputy mayor for security Albert Batlle said.

Specifically, this will see fines go up by 55% on average. Public urination, previously €200, is now €300, while spray painting is now €500 to €600 depending on the building, up from €300, and drinking in public can cost offenders up to €600.

"We think we will be able to see the results of this measure in the coming weeks," Batlle said. 

Local Guàrdia Urbana police have been informed of the new measure and their personal digital assistants have already been adapted in order to impose higher fines.