Emergency Help Abroad – Singapore

Crime & Legal Awareness

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

1. STRICT DRUG, WEAPON & ALCOHOL LAWS

• Singapore has some of the strictest drug laws in the world — trafficking carries the death penalty.

• Possession or use of illegal drugs results in arrest and imprisonment.

• Bringing drugs into Singapore is extremely dangerous and heavily punished.

• Carrying weapons, pepper spray or knives without authorisation is illegal.

• Drinking alcohol in public is restricted after certain hours (Public Order Act).

2. RESPECT FOR CULTURE, PUBLIC MORALS & ENVIRONMENT

• Singapore is culturally diverse — respectful behaviour is expected in all religious and cultural sites.

• Littering, spitting and smoking in prohibited areas can result in large fines.

• Vandalism is treated extremely seriously and carries heavy penalties.

• Showing disrespect toward religious objects or ceremonies is an offence.

• Modest dress is recommended in temples and mosques.

3. PUBLIC BEHAVIOUR & CIVIL ORDER

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

• Public drunkenness and disorderly behaviour can lead to arrest.

• The sale of alcohol after certain hours is restricted in some areas.

• Taking part in public protests or demonstrations without a permit is illegal.

• Bribery is a serious offence and can result in imprisonment.

4. TRAVEL, TRANSPORT & ADMINISTRATIVE OFFENCES

• Eating or drinking on public transport is prohibited and fined.

• Public transport requires valid tickets — enforcement is strict.

• Jaywalking or crossing roads outside designated areas can lead to fines.

• Driving offences such as speeding or handheld phone use carry heavy penalties.

• Overstaying your visa or pass can result in fines, detention or deportation.

5. PHOTOGRAPHY, DRONE & SECURITY RESTRICTIONS

• Drone use requires registration and is restricted near airports and residential zones.

• Photographing military buildings, secure installations or border areas is prohibited.

• Some religious sites may restrict photography.

• Always be respectful when photographing people, especially during ceremonies.

6. ENVIRONMENTAL & SAFETY LAWS

• Smoking is banned in many public areas — look for designated smoking points.

• Feeding wildlife (such as monkeys) is illegal.

• Dropping litter or food waste attracts heavy fines.

• Cycling or riding e-scooters on footpaths is restricted and monitored.

• Ignoring safety signs in parks, beaches or reservoirs may lead to penalties.

7. RESPECT FOR NATURE, CULTURE & HERITAGE SITES

• Damaging natural reserves or protected areas is illegal.

• Removing plants, shells or natural materials from parks and beaches is prohibited.

• Climbing on monuments or heritage structures is not allowed.

• Purchasing items made from protected 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 easy-going or informal in the UK may be understood quite differently in Singapore.

• Don’t chew gum, which is heavily restricted and cannot be imported without medical approval.

• Don’t litter or drop cigarette butts, as fines are high and enforcement strict.

• Don’t jaywalk, even across quiet roads, as penalties apply.

• Don’t smoke in prohibited areas, including bus stops, certain streets, hawker centres and near building entrances.

• Don’t use e-cigarettes or vapes, which are illegal to possess, import or use.

• Don’t eat or drink on public transport, including MRT stations and trains.

• Don’t disrespect religious sites, particularly by wearing revealing clothing or being noisy.

• Don’t flush public toilets improperly, as cleanliness rules are strictly enforced.

• Don’t assume cannabis is tolerated, as penalties for possession or trafficking are extremely severe.

• Don’t bring controlled medicines without documentation, as Singapore enforces strict import rules.

• Don’t overstay your visa, even by a short time; fines and detention are possible.

• Don’t discard food waste incorrectly, as it attracts fines and pests.

• Don’t use drones without permission, especially in built-up areas or near airports.

• Don’t ignore pedestrian crossings, where traffic rules are strict and enforced.

• Don’t vandalise public property, as penalties include heavy fines and even caning.

• Don’t show aggression in queues or public settings, where calm behaviour is expected.

• Don’t assume nightlife rules are relaxed, as certain areas have strict licensing hours.

• Don’t bring durian into the MRT or some hotels, due to its strong smell.

• Don’t spit in public, as this is illegal and heavily fined.

• Don’t disrespect multicultural customs, especially around prayer times and festivals.