Authorities in Majorca's capital city have launched a crackdown on anti-social behaviour including vandalism, littering and drinking in public that could catch rowdy tourists off-guard. Palma's new civic ordinance rules came into effect on Sunday, May 25, and have stipulated new hefty penalties for bad behaviour from locals and holidaymakers alike. Among the issues covered by the new measures are "balconing", the practice of jumping from one balcony to another, which will now be subject to a fine of up to £1,260 (€1,500) and graffiti, which could see perpetrators forced to cough up £100% (€750).

Electric scooter users will also have to carry proof of civil liability insurance, with a minimum cover of £100,786 (€120,000) and wear an approved helmet to avoid breaching the ordinance. Police will adopt an "educational" approach to the new regulations for the first few days after its implementation, the Majorca Daily Bulletin reports, taking an informative rather than penalising approach in the short-term. 

The strict new rules also include a ban on sex in public, streaking, playing music in front of public establishments, historical buildings or assets of cultural value.

A stricter response to a rise in illegal street selling could also leave tourists short of cash, with the penalty for buying products from unauthorised sellers a fine of up to £100% (€750).

In a document detailing the measures, Palma's city council said they would "combat uncivil attitudes and behaviour" with the aim of creating "a safe, orderly and respectful city".

The new edict comes ahead of what is predicted to be a record-breaking summer for the Balearic Islands' tourism trade, despite a spate of protests against the trend's impact on the local housing and job markets and day-to-day life.

Last year saw the largest-ever number of holidaymakers arrive in Majorca, with the island's central airport in Palma handling over 33 million passengers - a 7% increase from 2023, according to The Telegraph.

Despite a new increase in the region's overnight accommodation tax, the number of tourists flooding the Iberian Peninsula this summer is expected to set a new record, with the archipelago already recording a 3.6% increase in international visitors during the first quarter of 2025.