A tourist has been fined by Palma’s Policia Local for purchasing a pair of sunglasses from an illegal street seller. This is the first sanction that has been undertaken since Palma’s new Civic Ordinance against people buying goods from unlicensed sellers came into force on May 26. 

The official sanction reads that the buyer was fined for “making purchases from a street vendor without a license on a public road” and it does not disclose the amount fined.  The action taken by the police saw a total of 11 pairs of sunglasses being seized from the buyer. This measure occurred as part of a wider push to clamp down on illegal sales in order to protect legitimate businesses in Palma.

The City Council has launched a campaign that warns residents and tourists about the potential risks of purchasing items from unlicensed sellers.

Regulations for unauthorised street selling classify it as a “serious offence,” and unlicensed sellers face fines of between €750 (£642) and €1,500 (£1,285).

Depending on the circumstances, buyers could face a penalty between €100 (£85) and €750 (£642).

Holidaymakers may also want to brush up on other regulations, including the fact that many of Spain’s beaches are becoming smoke-free areas. Popular Majorcan spots such as Llucmajor, Palma, and Magaluf have even restricted alcohol sales from 9.30pm to 8am and clamped down on happy hour offerings.

For those who wish to throw loud parties without permission, a €750 (£642) fine could be on the cards. Valencia’s crackdown includes potential fines of up to €3,000 (£2,570)for unsanctioned tent pitching.