What You’ll Gain from This Blog
- Know which everyday actions are illegal or restricted in Singapore, even if they seem harmless elsewhere
- How tourists can avoid unnecessary fines and penalties
- Differentiate between myths and real enforced laws to live smartly in Singapore
- Understanding the local laws can help you navigate Singapore confidently and seamlessly
Singapore is widely admired for being one of the cleanest, safest, and most efficiently run countries in the world. That reputation doesn’t happen by accident—it’s supported by strict public laws that prioritise order, hygiene, and safety.
For tourists and business travellers, however, some everyday actions that seem completely harmless elsewhere can unexpectedly lead to fines in Singapore. Most people who get penalised aren’t being reckless; they’re simply unaware of local rules.
This guide walks you through 10 real and enforced laws in Singapore that tourists should know, helping you avoid unnecessary trouble, separate myths from facts, and enjoy a smooth, stress-free stay.
Quick Snapshot: Weird Singapore Laws Tourists Should Know
- Eating or drinking on MRT trains and buses – ❌ Illegal
- Using someone’s Wi-Fi without permission – ❌ Illegal
- Feeding pigeons – ❌ Illegal
- Not flushing public toilets – ❌ Fined
- Smoking in public places – ❌ Restricted
- Walking naked at home (if visible) – ❌ Illegal
- Littering, even small items – ❌ Heavy fines
- Selling or importing chewing gum – ❌ Illegal
- Public spitting & late-night alcohol consumption – ❌ Illegal
- Jaywalking – ❌ Fined
10 Strange Laws in Singapore Tourists Should Know to Stay Out of Trouble
1. Eating/drinking on Public Transport
Eating or drinking on Singapore’s MRT trains and public buses is strictly prohibited, including snacks and beverages.
Why this law exists:
To maintain cleanliness and prevent pest issues in enclosed public spaces.
Penalty:
Fines can go up to SGD 500.
Tip:
Finish food and drinks before entering stations, and keep bottles sealed while commuting.
2. Using someone’s Wi-Fi without permission
Many might know, but in Singapore, people are not allowed to access unsecured or private Wi-Fi without permission. Doing this is treated as unauthorised access and leads to fines or legal action.
Why this law exists:
To protect digital privacy and prevent misuse of networks.
Penalty:
Fines or legal action, depending on the case.
Tip:
Use hotel Wi-Fi, official public hotspots, or your own mobile data.
3. Feeding pigeons
To prevent overpopulation and maintain hygiene, feeding pigeons is strictly prohibited in Singapore.
Why this law exists:
To prevent overpopulation and maintain hygiene in public spaces.
Penalty:
Violation of the same can result in a fine of SGD 300-500.
Tip:
As tempting as it may be, admire wildlife without feeding them.
4. Not flushing public toilets
If you use a public toilet and fail to flush it after use, it can lead to an on-the-spot fine. Singapore is serious about hygiene, and hence these laws are strictly enforced.
Why this law exists:
Singapore takes public hygiene extremely seriously, and inspections are common.
Penalty:
Amount can lead to an on-the-spot fine that goes up to SGD 150.
Tip:
Always double-check before leaving public restrooms.
5. Public Smoking
Smoking is prohibited in many public premises in Singapore, which include bus stops, covered walkways, parks, and building entrances.
Why this law exists:
To protect public health and keep shared spaces clean.
Penalty:
Fines start from SGD 200 and can go much higher.
Tip:
Look for clearly marked designated smoking zones.
You can also opt for our serviced apartments in Singapore that offer designated smoking areas and other luxurious amenities for a perfect combination of space, flexibility, privacy and comfort.
Strange Laws in Singapore
6. Walking Naked in Your House
Singapore has a surprisingly strict rule around nudity. Walking naked at home is illegal if you’re visible to others.
Why this law exists:
To prevent public nuisance and indecent exposure.
Penalty:
Fines can go up to SGD 1,000, and in some cases, further charges may apply.
Tip:
Keep curtains closed, especially in high-rise apartments.
7. Littering in Singapore
Littering in Singapore is an extremely serious matter. This includes even small items, like throwing cigarette butts, receipts, food wrappers, etc.
Why this law exists:
This strict enforcement is one of the reasons Singapore is exceptionally clean.
Penalty:
The fine starts from SGD 300 and goes higher. If anyone is caught littering more than once, corrective measures can be taken against them.
Tip:
If you don’t see a bin, keep the waste with you until you find one.
8. Bringing or selling chewing gum
Chewing gum is legal. But importing or selling chewing gum in Singapore, especially prescribed medicinal chewing gum, is illegal and a severe violation.
Why this law exists:
To prevent vandalism and cleanliness issues.
Penalty:
Severe penalties for sellers and illegal importers.
Tip:
Tourists should note that they can bring a small personal amount for themselves; it rarely becomes an issue. But selling them is strictly prohibited.
9. Public Spitting and alcohol consumption at night
When in Singapore, remember that spitting in public places such as sidewalks, markets, and public buildings is prohibited and can lead to fines up to SGD 1,000.
Additionally, one can not consume alcohol in public places between 10:30 pm and 7:00 am.
Why these laws exist:
To maintain hygiene and public order, especially at night.
Penalty:
If seen violating these rule, you can be fined up to SGD 1,000 - 2,000.
Tip:
Enjoy alcohol inside licensed venues and avoid drinking outdoors late at night.
10. Jaywalking
Jaywalking outside the designated pedestrian crossings or against traffic signals is illegal.
Why this law exists:
To ensure pedestrian safety and smooth traffic flow.
Penalty:
Jaywalking can cause fines of SGD 50 to 1,000, depending on the circumstances.
Tip:
Always follow pedestrian lights, even if the road looks empty.
Final Thoughts
Singapore can be tough to navigate for newcomers, but these rules should be taken as the reason behind this gorgeous city’s clean and safe reputation. Most tourists face fines unintentionally, simply because they are not aware of these rules.
By knowing these rules, you can make your stay in Singapore seamless and easy to navigate. Furthermore, selecting the right accommodation in Singapore, that are rule-compliant, can make your stay smoother from the outset.
