In the commune of Independencia, a recent municipal ordinance has generated great interest among residents, since it prohibits activities such as doing roasted on the street This measure, approved by the Municipal Council, seeks to improve coexistence in public spaces, responding to multiple complaints from the community about disorders and annoying noises. The regulations also aim to guarantee safety and reduce the pollution that can be caused by the informal sale of food on the streets.
Mayor Carola Rivero was clear when explaining that the main motivation behind the measure is to maintain the streets and sidewalks clear and safe. In his words, the streets should not become spaces for informal meetings, as if they were a barbecue area.
Despite the restrictions, the ordinance also provides for some exceptions. For example, residents will be able to continue carrying out recreational or commercial activities in public spaces, such as birthdays or community events, as long as they have the corresponding authorization. In this way, the regulations do not prevent the use of the places or sidewalks for special events, but requires formal permission to be requested in advance.
Regarding sanctions, those who violate this new regulation will face fines significant. Depending on the severity of the infraction and whether it is the first time it occurs or a repeat offense, the fines vary between 2 and 5 UTM. In Chilean pesos, this means that the cost for violating the ordinance will range between 133 thousand and 332 thousand pesos, which seeks to discourage the misuse of public spaces for this type of activities.
This new regulation against roasted It generated debate among those who see the streets as a place for social gatherings and fear that this measure will limit community life in the commune. The key, according to the mayor, is to balance the right of residents to enjoy public spaces with the need to maintain order and security.