Emergency Help Abroad – Dominican Republic

Crime & Legal Awareness

A concise overview of the key laws, legal expectations and enforcement practices travellers should understand before visiting The Dominican Republic — including behaviours that may be acceptable in the UK but carry stricter penalties or different interpretations abroad.

1. STRICT DRUG, WEAPON & ALCOHOL LAWS

• Possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs is treated severely and leads to arrest or imprisonment.

• Carrying weapons, including knives or sprays, without lawful purpose is illegal.

• Drink-driving is a criminal offence; police conduct regular roadside checks.

• Bringing illegal substances into the country results in immediate detention.

• Drug offences carry lengthy legal processes before trial.

2. RESPECT FOR CULTURE, PUBLIC MORALS & ENVIRONMENT

• Modest behaviour is expected in churches and local communities.

• Public nudity is illegal outside designated tourist resorts.

• Littering on beaches, parks or public spaces may incur fines.

• Vandalism or damage to cultural property is a criminal offence.

• Respect local customs and avoid loud behaviour in residential areas.

3. PUBLIC BEHAVIOUR & CIVIL ORDER

• Police may request identification — carry your passport or a copy.

• Petty crime, such as bag-snatching and phone theft, is common in busy tourist areas.

• Avoid walking alone at night, especially away from resort zones.

• Avoid protests or political demonstrations.

• Attempting to bribe officials is illegal.

4. TRAVEL, TRANSPORT & ADMINISTRATIVE OFFENCES

• Only use licensed taxis or resort-approved transport — avoid unmarked vehicles.

• Road conditions vary; speeding and unsafe driving are common risks.

• Public transport requires valid fares; some buses operate on fixed routes only.

• Overstaying your entry period may result in fines when departing.

• Off-road excursions should be booked with reputable operators.

5. PHOTOGRAPHY, DRONE & SECURITY RESTRICTIONS

• Drone use is regulated and may require permission; avoid airport and military areas.

• Do not photograph military bases, police stations or government buildings.

• Ask permission before photographing people in rural villages or markets.

• Some religious and cultural sites restrict photography — follow signage.

6. ENVIRONMENTAL & SAFETY LAWS

• Removing shells, coral or natural materials from beaches is prohibited.

• Strong currents can make swimming hazardous — always observe flag warnings.

• Feeding wildlife is discouraged and may be illegal in protected zones.

• Lighting fires on beaches may require permission.

• Hiking off designated trails can be unsafe.

7. RESPECT FOR NATURE, CULTURE & HERITAGE SITES

• Damaging historic buildings, caves or monuments is a criminal offence.

• Removing archaeological or cultural items is illegal.

• Entering restricted or protected natural areas without a guide may attract fines.

• Buying items made from endangered species is illegal.

What You Shouldn’t Do - Behaviours Travellers Should Avoid.

These are important behaviours and actions to avoid to stay respectful, safe and aligned with local expectations. Remember that what feels comfortable or commonplace in the UK may not be interpreted the same way in the Dominican Republic.

• Don’t swim when red flags are raised, as currents on the Atlantic and Caribbean sides can be extremely strong.

• Don’t leave valuables unattended on beaches, even at resort areas.

• Don’t drink tap water, and use bottled or purified water instead.

• Don’t walk alone at night in quiet streets, particularly outside resort complexes.

• Don’t accept unlicensed moto-taxi rides, which can be unsafe.

• Don’t show excessive public affection in conservative areas, particularly in small towns.

• Don’t take photos of military or police sites, which may be restricted.

• Don’t underestimate sun exposure, especially on the south coast.

• Don’t buy wildlife products, including shells, coral or starfish.

• Don’t feed stray animals, which may carry disease.

• Don’t wander into remote or unlit areas, especially in Santo Domingo’s old town at night.

• Don’t participate in aggressive bargaining, as polite negotiation is preferred.

• Don’t rely solely on cards, as small shops may accept cash only.

• Don’t swim in rivers or waterfalls after heavy rain, when water levels can rise quickly.

• Don’t drive without caution, as road conditions and driving styles vary.

• Don’t ignore hurricane season warnings, which can impact travel plans.

• Don’t litter beaches or forests, especially in protected reserves.

• Don’t underestimate rip currents, even on calm-looking beaches.

• Don’t assume all-inclusive areas are immune to petty crime, and remain aware of belongings.

• Don’t join unverified excursions, especially those involving boats or remote areas.