7 Things that are banned in Singapore

Singapore has strict regulations and laws to maintain law and order but you may not be aware of some of the amazing activities that are banned in the garden state. So before you break the laws, here is the list of 7 things that are banned in Singapore.

1. Recreational fireworks/firecrackers

Although lighting firecrackers is an auspicious activity for some cultures, the loud, crackling act has been banned in Singapore since 1970 when a firecracker caused a fire killing and injuring locals. This is the reason, Singaporeans are only able to set off firecrackers during festive seasons.

2. Chewing gum

Chewing gum is completely banned since 2004. Except it is used for medical purposes, like nicotine gum, it is usually banned in Singapore. If found selling chewing gum, you’d face a penalty as high as SGD100,000.

3. E-Cigarettes

Although e-cigarettes have been less harmful than actual cigarettes, Singapore’s Health Sciences Authority (HSA) has banned cigarette substitutes, suggesting that it could be a gateway for non-smokers to get addicted to tobacco. Since 2011 it is banned in Singapore with a provision of the penalty of $5,000 if you are caught importing or distributing it.

4. Public nudity

It could be actually strange, but it’s illegal for anyone to walk around both public spaces and private residential premises in the nude. If you are found in the public or caught nude, you can get fined or be jailed for up to 3 months.

5. Shisha

Shisha is yet another way of smoking where flavor-infused tobacco is vaporized through a bong, or hookah. This is officially banned in 2016 in Singapore. The import or sale of shisha within the premises of individual or hotels is punishable.

6. Carrying durian onto public transportation

Due to the stench smell of durian which is unbearable, it’s banned by the government on all public buses and trains. Is it so bad? Some say it its pleasantly sweet and creamy scent, others have described it to have a pungent, almost sulfur-like stench.

7. Alcohol after 10:30 pm

In 2015 Singapore banned the sale and consumption of alcohol in public spaces from 10:30 pm to 7 am. If any restaurant does not have required permits, it could be sentenced to a fine of up to SGD10,000 if caught selling alcohol during this time frame. A riot took place at Race Course Road due to public disorder caused by drinking. This lead to a ban on drinking. However, you can invite your friends over and take the party inside instead!