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30 Craziest laws you will find in Singapore

*Originally  Published by Diana C in May 2023 and Updated by Diana K in May 2024

Did you know that Singapore, a well-kept, contemporary, and highly developed city-state, also has some peculiar laws? Singapore’s law system has several unexpected provisions, such as limitations on how frequently you can flush the toilet and regulations regarding chewing gum.

This article will examine 20 of Singapore’s most bizarre laws that you probably had no idea existed. You might find yourself scratching your head in confusion over some of them, while you might question why the authorities decided to pass others. So without further ado, let’s explore these weird Singaporean laws.

1. Chewing gum is illegal in Singapore

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Except for therapeutic gum that has been authorized by the Health Sciences Authority, chewing gum is prohibited in Singapore. The ban was put into place in 1992 to maintain the city-cleanliness since gum was frequently left attached to pavements and public furnishings. Since 1992, Singapore has outlawed the sale and import of chewing gum.

Chewing gum cannot be brought into Singapore, not even for personal use. Offenders may receive fines or perhaps go to jail. Chewing gum sales and advertisements are forbidden in Singapore under the Sale of Food (Prohibition of Chewing Gum) Rules, which carries a maximum fine of $2,000 for violations. However, only certain varieties of chewing gum are covered by these regulations, and items classified as “oral dental gum” are exempt.

2. Durians are not allowed on public transport

Singapore prohibits the presence of durian, a spiky and acrid fruit that is common in Southeast Asia on public transportation. Due to the pungent smell that the fruit gives out, this legislation was implemented. Other passengers may find the smell to be overpowering. The fruit durian is renowned for its strong smell. The law was passed to stop the overpowering stink from upsetting other travelers.

3. It is illegal to walk around naked

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Walking around naked in your own home is against the law. This is because it is considered a kind of public immorality. Offenders may receive fines or perhaps go to jail. It is forbidden to be exposed to the public while on a balcony or through a window. If neighbors or bystanders may see you, it is forbidden to be naked in your own home.

4. You cannot connect to Wi-Fi without permission

Unauthorized use of another person’s Wi-Fi network is not allowed in Singapore. An attempt to do the same will result in a  fine or jail sentence. It is imperative that business travelers to Singapore are aware of this regulation.

Section 6(1)(a) of the Computer Misuse Act of 1993 outlines this law. It points out that individuals found guilty may be subject to a fine and a sentence of over two years. The fine and the maximum sentence of imprisonment increases if one is found guilty a second time.

5. It is illegal to sing offensive songs

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Singing songs with inappropriate lyrics or content in public is prohibited. Songs that are inconsiderate to race or religion fall under this category. The Singapore Criminal Code outlines this law. It prohibits use of “any filthy language in or near any public place”. Doing the same can lead to three months in prison and/or a fine. Before traveling to Singapore, you must memorize the clean versions of all your favorite songs.

6. Not flushing public toilets is illegal

There is a fine if the toilet is not flushed after use. The government places a high priority on sanitation and hygiene. Lee Kuan Yew, Singapore’s first and possibly most well-liked prime minister, is responsible for making bathrooms there so crazily clean. Lee came to power in 1959 until he decided to stand down in 1990. He presided over Singapore for 31 years.

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7. It is illegal to drink alcohol past some time

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Alcohol sales and consumption are prohibited in all public places, including bars and restaurants, during “no-public drinking periods,” as per the Liquor Control (Supply and Consumption) Act 2015. In most places, this is from 10.30 p.m. to 7 a.m. If you’re in a Liquor Control Zone, this may change significantly. Offenders of this rule may be subject to huge fines  and/or a jail term.

8. Avoid jaywalking in Singapore

In Singapore, it is against the law to cross the street outside of designated zones (jaywalking). Offenders may receive fines or perhaps go to jail. To guarantee the safety of pedestrians, Singapore has put severe regulations in place. The penalties for jaywalking include fines and jail term sentences. 

9. It is illegal to feed pigeons

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In Singapore, feeding pigeons in public areas is discouraged. This is due to the potential for health risks and an overpopulation of birds. Pigeons are considered a nuisance and a health risk by the government. Anyone caught breaking this rule will be found guilty of an offense is subject to a fine. On your subsequent lunch break, you’ll have to keep those sandwich crusts to yourself.

10. Graffiti is not allowed in Singapore

Vandalism in Singapore carries the risk of both arrest and caning. After an American teen was spanked for damaging cars and public property, Singapore’s vandalism laws first shocked the media in 1994. These works of art are considered to be vandalism only when done without authorization.

11. Avoid being in possession of pornography

In Singapore, it is prohibited to possess pornographic materials, including adult periodicals and DVDs. Offenders may receive fines or perhaps go to jail. Pornographic movies cannot be kept, owned, or downloaded in Singapore according to the Films Act.

Whether the pornographic film is tangible or digital, and regardless of whether it was created for personal use, this is true. Anyone found in possession of pornographic films is subject to a fine or a jail sentence. The penalties get stiffer if it is established that the person knew or should have known that the movie had pornographic content.

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12. It is illegal to litter in Singapore

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In Singapore, it’s against the law to litter, and first-time offenders risk a $1,000 punishment. Depending on the size of the item, littering entails a steep fine of $300 or more. Smaller items like candy wrappers typically result in a lower fine, whereas items like soda cans can land you in court and even result in a caning if caught. The government has put rigorous controls in place to keep the city clean because it takes cleanliness very seriously.

13. Avoid eating or drinking on a means of public transportation

Singapore prohibits eating and drinking on buses, trains, and other forms of public transit. Offenders may receive fines or perhaps go to jail. The administration seeks to maintain hygienic conditions on public transportation.

It’s crucial to keep in mind this unusual legislation while you’re in Singapore because many tourists rely on the city’s public transportation to get about their activities. Both eating and drinking are prohibited at MRT stations and on MRT trains under the 1987 Rapid Transit Systems (RTS) Act. Even drinking plain water in trains or stations is prohibited for passengers.

14. No public display of affection

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Hugging and kissing in public places are frowned upon in Singapore. Doing this may result in accusations of public indecency. A fine may be assessed for public displays of affection like kissing and hugging. The government views it as a disturbance of the peace.

15. It is prohibited to be in possession of fireworks

Sparklers are included in the list of fireworks that are prohibited in Singapore. Offenders may receive fines or perhaps go to jail. Some people might consider setting off firecrackers as preliminary to major celebrations. It is a mainstay of many Chinese holidays. The 1972 Hazardous Fireworks Act made it forbidden to celebrate loudly in Singapore. Singaporeans can currently only light off firecrackers during specific holidays.

16. Smoking in public is illegal

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One can be fined for smoking in public areas. Parks, beaches, and transportation are considered public places. Singapore has defined zones where smoking is permitted. In addition, possession, distribution, and sale of imitation tobacco products are prohibited. This is stated in the Tobacco (Regulation of Advertisements and Sale) Act. You will be found guilty of an offense if these rules are proven to be broken. 

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17. No spitting in public

A fine may be prescribed for spitting in public. The government has taken steps to maintain sanitary conditions . This is helpful in reducing the spread of diseases. Spitting is not tolerated in Singapore. In markets and coffee shops, you are not allowed to spit. This is the same case with public sidewalks and roadways. 

18. No flying kites

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In several parts of Singapore, such as Orchard Road and the central business district, kite flying is prohibited. The law was implemented to stop collisions and traffic snarls. Consequently, it is prohibited to fly kites over public transportation. It makes sense that if you interfere with traffic, you would get in trouble. The reason behind this is the many awful things that could go wrong if people are behaving carelessly on roadways. 

19.  Homosexuality is illegal in Singapore

Homosexuality in men is prohibited. Having sex with someone of the same gender is included. Holding hands, kissing, and hugging in public is also frowned upon. Surprisingly, the laws’ language only refers to homosexuality in men. This law makes no mention of women. There is a movement of individuals working hard to overturn this law.

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20. Urinating in elevators is illegal

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Never, ever urinate in an elevator in Singapore. They have urine detection systems installed (UDD). These trigger an alarm when they pick up urine odor. Until the police show up to take the offender into custody, the doors automatically close.

21. Piggybacking an Unsecured Wireless Network is Illegal

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For many of us getting thrown in jail for using someone’s WiFi without permission seems like an over-reach, right? Well, that’s exactly what could happen to you in Singapore if you piggyback on an unsecured wireless network. It’s considered hacking under their Computer Misuse and Cybersecurity Act.

Something as innocent as connecting to an open WiFi hotspot to check your email could potentially land you with a $10,000* fine or up to 3 years behind bars. If you are visiting the Lion City, you better pay for your data! Better safe than sorry.

22. You Need a License to Busk in Singapore

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FYI you can be fined a whopping $10,000*  just for performing on the street? In Singapore, busking without a proper license is illegal and can seriously put a dent in your wallet. To keep the city’s lively street performances in check, aspiring buskers have to go through an audition process to obtain a coveted Busking Card.

With this special permit, performers get access to over 70 designated busking spots around the island to showcase their talents. Whether you’re a singer, musician, or have some juggling skills, make sure you’re carded up before hitting those streets! The authorities don’t mess around when it comes to unlicensed public entertainment in Singapore’s orderly boulevards.

23. Do not use Offensive Language Against Public Servants

Singapore takes public decorum seriously. Swearing or using offensive language out in the open is an offence that can lead to jail or come with a huge fine. This law states when dealing with public servants communicating in an indecent, threatening, abusive or insulting manner while they are executing their duty is guilty of an offence. And the punishment is a 12 months prison term or a fine or both. ​

24. Rice Importation Requires a Special License

You have to get a license just to import rice into a country. Thanks to Singapore’s crazy laws. Under the Price Control Act, every single grain of rice is considered a controlled item. Whether it’s basmati, jasmine, or just plain white rice, you need special permission from the authorities to bring it into the country.

Picture bureaucrats meticulously inspecting every shipment, scrutinizing each individual grain like it’s contraband (Just Kidding) To import rice legally you need a Licence from the Singapore Food Agency (SFA).

25. It is Illegal to Intentionally Feed Wildlife in Singapore

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Visitors and locals have probably seen the cheeky long-tailed macaques scampering around Singapore’s parks and nature areas. But  feeding them is actually against the law,  it seems harmless to toss them left-over snacks. However, when monkeys get used to getting food from humans, they can become aggressive and start snatching items right out of people’s hands.

To avoid creating complete monkey dependency, the parks service has to crack down on wildlife feeding. So as tempting as it is to share your banana with those adorable primates, it’s best to appreciate them from a distance. The act of kindness can come with a steep fine.

26. It is Illegal to Fail to Report Change of Residential Address in Singapore

Move to a new place is usually a hassle and just get so caught up unpacking and settling in that you completely forget to update your address? In Singapore, that little slip of the mind could land you in some hot soup. It is illegal not report a change of residential address within 28 days. The logic is that the government and other agencies want to be able to reach you for official communications and updates. If you are so busy you can hop online and update that address immediately after a move.

27. Failure to Register for Dog License in Singapore is Considered a Criminal Offence

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In Singapore, dogs need proper paperwork. If you’re planning to adopt or buy a furry friend, listen up put this in mind. Once your puppy turns 3 months old, you have to get them licensed or face the law. We’re talking a whopping $5,000* fine for it. In other countries, the amount could buy 55 premium dog beds from the fanciest pet boutique.

The process is pretty straightforward though – just fill out a form, submit some documents like your puppy’s microchip info and mug shot, pay the fee, and your loyal companion is legit. Plus, the license fee is discounted if your dog is spayed or neutered.

28. Spreading Fake News in Singapore is Illegal

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Singaporean authorities take sharing fake news online seriously and one could end up getting slapped with not just one, but up to six different criminal charges. Firstly, if you knowingly transmit false messages, you’re looking at a hefty fine or even jail time.

Spreading fake terrorist threats is an even worse that can land you behind bars for years. Posts that disrupt racial or religious harmony are also criminal. Publishing seditious material that causes social tensions is another offence. In Singapore, you must think before you click/share.

29. Heavy Penalties are Imposed for Households Found With Mosquito Breeding Habitats

There is a feeling of pride when your potted plants are thriving. Their lush leaves and blooms brighten up your home. But remember to always drain off any standing water at the bottom of those flower pots. In Singapore, inspectors could come knocking unannounced. If they find even a tiny pool of stagnant water serving as a mosquito breeding ground, you could face a hefty fine. 

The fine might run to a couple of hundred Singaporean dollars just for one neglected pot.  So do a quick potted plant check every few days – tip out any excess liquid and wipe down those saucers. A minute of your time beats a potential run-in with the inspectors and an unnecessary dent in your wallet.

30. Caning is Legal Punishment in Singapore

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Caning is a legal form of corporal punishment that’s frequently used in this city state. If you’re a male under 50 years convicted of certain crimes, the judge can sentence you to be caned in addition to jail time. The maximum number of cane strokes allowed is 24 per conviction. Though you could get more from separate trials. It is carried out in prison by trained staff using a thick rattan cane across bare bottoms.

Even inmates can get caned for bad behaviour while locked up. Singapore believes caning helps deter serious crimes by making offenders face very unpleasant consequences. Whether you agree with it or not, caning remains firmly entrenched in their justice system.

Even though some of these regulations might appear absurd or out-of-date, they are necessary to uphold Singapore’s reputation. Even though they seem strange, these rules are nonetheless upheld by the government, thus tourists to Singapore should be aware of them to stay out of trouble. These rules serve as a last reminder that each nation has its own particular laws and customs.