Chilean citizens and tourists (mainly Argentines) have reported in recent days that they have been victims of fines that were unknown to them.
Specifically, the fines are from having smoked in the beaches of Chili. Before you panic, below we will tell you in which case you should be fined and how much you should pay for it.
Why are people who smoke on the beach fined?
These fines come from Law 21,413 or “Chao Butts”, which establishes clear restrictions not only for smoking in these natural spaces, but also for throwing cigarette waste in public places.
Specifically, this law prohibits citizens and tourists from smoking on beaches, rivers and lakes, in a strip 80 meters wide from the highest tide line, and on riverside public lands.
In addition, it is requested not to throw cigarette butts or filters in public spaces, such as streets, squares, sidewalks, parks and other shared places.
The “Bye Butts” law also requires the installation of ashtrays and receptacles in public places with a lot of traffic such as airports, cinemas, universities, restaurants, and supermarkets so that smokers can properly dispose of their butts.
How much is the fine for smoking on Chilean beaches?
Those who DO NOT respect the “Chao Butts” law will be subject to fines ranging from 1 UTM ($64,999) to 4 UTM ($259,996), depending on the infraction committed.
In some cases, the possibility of performing community services is contemplated. The main problem this summer is that many Argentine tourists were not aware of this legislation, they have been fined for smoking on the beach and forced to perform community service.
However, some tourists must return to their country of origin before the date imposed by the Chilean justice system and are unable to perform community services.
