Littering & Spitting Fines in Singapore – Singapore, The Fine City

Inspiration

22 Jan 10

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I was going to the toilet at Boon Keng MRT station when I saw a 5 men outside, making a hell of a commotion. They were arguing about something and I was clueless until I heard the guy who seemed to be dominated by the other 4, saying “…but I was just clearing my throat and I spit…”. So, it was a case of a spitting offence. Just last 2 weeks, my colleague was fined $300 for littering a cigarette bud in the drain. And a few months back, my boss was fined $150 for littering a cigarette bud too. Unfortunately for my colleague, the fine had been doubled during her time of offence.

Fine Amount for Littering and Spitting in Singapore

Littering in Singapore carries a fine of $300. And so does spitting. Yes, Singapore is strict with its rules and regulations, but it’s a trade off for a clean and safe country with a high standard of living. And of course, that comes with a high cost of living.

Who can Fine You for Littering and Spitting?

The government body, NEA (National Environmental Agency), is the main enforcer who is issuing the fines. They are everywhere, most active during the lunch hours, 12PM to 2PM. I’ve seen them before, they are dressed in a white polo t-shirt bearing the NEA logo at the chest area. These personnel carry a bag where all their equipment and fine notice forms are. Other organizations that can fine you include the Singapore Police Force, SMRT officers, Park Rangers and even security officers/guards. So, be on the look out everytime you wish to throw a tissue paper or clear your mouth full of saliva inconsiderately.

How Do You Pay a Fine?

I myself was fined once, about 5 years ago, at Marina Promenade Park (now the Singapore Flyer) for littering a cigarette bud. At that time, it was $150 and I had to pay the fine by going to the NEA headquarters at the Singapore Botanic Gardens. Now, technology has allowed for paying fines electronically and you can do so online or through AXS machines islandwide.

Remember, Singapore is a Fine City.