Emergency Help Abroad – Norway

Crime & Legal Awareness

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

1. STRICT DRUG, WEAPON & ALCOHOL LAWS

• Norway enforces strict drug laws — possession, use or trafficking results in fines or imprisonment.

• Carrying weapons, including knives or sprays, without lawful reason is prohibited.

• Drink-driving is treated severely with high fines and immediate licence suspension.

• Alcohol can only be purchased at state-run shops (Vinmonopolet) outside bar/restaurants.

• Importing illegal substances into the country leads to arrest.

2. RESPECT FOR CULTURE, PUBLIC MORALS & ENVIRONMENT

• Respect for nature is central — littering and environmental harm carry fines.

• Public drunkenness is taken seriously, especially in residential areas.

• Behaving loudly late at night may attract police attention.

• Respect church etiquette, cultural norms and Sami communities in the north.

• Damaging public property or monuments is a criminal offence.

3. PUBLIC BEHAVIOUR & CIVIL ORDER

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

• Norway is generally safe, but petty theft can occur in busy tourist areas.

• Avoid walking alone late at night in isolated areas of major cities.

• Demonstrations occur occasionally — tourists should avoid participation.

• Attempting to bribe officials is illegal.

4. TRAVEL, TRANSPORT & ADMINISTRATIVE OFFENCES

• Public transport requires valid payment — inspectors issue on-the-spot fines.

• Speeding, illegal parking and dangerous driving attract significant penalties.

• Winter driving requires snow tyres and extreme caution.

• Ferries and scenic trains require pre-booked tickets during peak season.

• Overstaying Schengen limits may result in penalties or future travel restrictions.

5. PHOTOGRAPHY, DRONE & SECURITY RESTRICTIONS

• Drone use is regulated; avoid flying near airports, military sites or wildlife zones.

• Do not photograph military or security installations.

• Respect photography rules at Sami cultural sites and private farms.

• Some museums and churches restrict photography — follow signage.

6. ENVIRONMENTAL & SAFETY LAWS

• Removing plants, stones or natural materials from protected areas is prohibited.

• Wild camping is allowed under “right to roam,” but strict rules apply — leave no trace.

• Swimming in fjords and lakes can be dangerous due to currents and cold temperatures.

• Lighting fires in forests is banned during dry seasons.

• Feeding wildlife such as reindeer or sea birds is discouraged and sometimes illegal.

7. RESPECT FOR NATURE, CULTURE & HERITAGE SITES

• Damaging heritage buildings, stave churches or archaeological sites is a criminal offence.

• Entering restricted areas in national parks without a guide may incur fines.

• Removing artefacts or cultural items is illegal.

• Buying souvenirs made from endangered species is prohibited.

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 acceptable or low-key in the UK may be considered abrupt, disrespectful or inappropriate in Norway.

• Don’t underestimate mountain and fjord weather, which can change in minutes.

• Don’t ignore trail signs or attempt unprepared hikes, especially on Trolltunga, Preikestolen and Kjerag.

• Don’t camp outside permitted areas, and follow Norway’s “Right to Roam” rules carefully.

• Don’t leave litter, food or waste outdoors, as Norwegian nature is protected fiercely.

• Don’t disturb wildlife, including reindeer, seabirds and Arctic foxes.

• Don’t drive in winter without proper tyres, especially in northern regions.

• Don’t drink alcohol in many public areas, where local restrictions apply.

• Don’t buy whalebone, fur or protected wildlife products, as regulations are strict.

• Don’t swim in fjords without checking conditions, where water is icy even in summer.

• Don’t walk on private docks or boathouses, which are often not public areas.

• Don’t smoke in many public places, including around bus stops and ferry terminals.

• Don’t underestimate Arctic sun and snow glare, which can cause burns or snow blindness.

• Don’t attempt to drive too close to wildlife, particularly on remote northern roads.

• Don’t rely on cash everywhere, as Norway is largely cashless.

• Don’t ignore avalanche warnings, especially when skiing off-piste.

• Don’t make fires outside permitted zones, particularly in dry season.

• Don’t assume English isn’t widely spoken, but still be polite in local interactions.

• Don’t disrupt Sami cultural areas, and follow local guidance respectfully.

• Don’t underestimate travel distances in rural Norway, where roads are winding and slow.

• Don’t rely on ferries running late into the evening, especially outside summer season.