Starting today, September 23, nuisance and disruptive behaviour on public buses and at bus interchanges in Singapore is officially an offence. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has rolled out these new regulations to foster a safer and more pleasant public transport environment. The new laws finally bring the regulatory framework for public buses in line with the strict rules already enforced on the MRT and LRT networks. Here’s what Singapore commuters need to know about the new public transport rules.
What are the new Singapore bus fines?
To ensure operations run smoothly, bus captains will not be handing out fines directly so they can remain focused on safely driving the bus. Instead, empowered public transport staff, such as ticket inspectors and bus interchange personnel, have the authority to issue an Administrative Notification of Offence (NOO) to anyone suspected of breaking the rules.
Additionally, the LTA will then follow up with official investigations. However, bus captains still retain the authority to ask disruptive passengers to leave, and can call the Bus Operations Control Centre or the police in serious situations.
Here’s a summary of the new rules and maximum penalties:
- Eating or drinking on board: Up to $500 fine
- Placing feet on seats: Up to $500 fine
- Playing audio at a loud volume: Up to $500 fine
- Littering: Up to $500 fine
- Causing obstruction or danger to others: Up to $5,000 fine (at interchanges or terminals)
- Soiling any part of a public bus or terminal: Up to $5,000 fine
Certainly, these new rules are strict but the LTA emphasized that authorities will exercise fairness and discretion. For instance, special consideration will be given in cases involving commuters with physical or mental health conditions—to ensure that enforcement is handled with both firmness and compassion.
