Porto, Portugal, has implemented a nighttime alcohol sales ban effective from 9 p.m. to 8 a.m. in its downtown "Containment Zone". This regulation, part of a 2023 amendment, aims to curb disruptions caused by increasing visitor numbers indulging in the nightlife scene. Street gatherings, or botellónes, prompted scrutiny due to rising public disturbances. Local officials, including Mayor Rui de Carvalho de Araújo Moreira, noted that previous fines were insufficient deterrents against rule violations. Only licensed establishments can sell alcohol during restricted hours, with stricter enforcement measures established for non-compliance.
The restrictions are part of an amendment to regulations first put in place in 2023. Porto experiences a significant increase in visitor numbers, increasing disruptive drinking incidents.
What we noticed is that the successive application of fines did not dissuade [people] from continuing to violate the rules, because paying the fine was worth it, because the fines were low.
...during these hours, only licensed cafes, bars, restaurants, and nightclubs will be allowed to sell alcoholic beverages.
What justifies this is our conviction that this phenomenon... is causing disturbances and health issues in several parts of the city.
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