Tourists visiting Palma, the capital of Mallorca, are being warned they could face hefty fines of up to €750 (£640) if caught buying items from  illegal street vendors under tough new rules introduced last month. The updated civic ordinance, which came into force on May 26, is part of a wider crackdown by Palma’s city council on unlicensed trade in popular tourist areas.

Authorities say the move aims to protect legitimate businesses and improve public safety. The new regulation explicitly states that “anyone buying items such as sunglasses, jewellery, counterfeit clothing, drinks, or other goods from illegal street vendors will face a fine of up to €750.”

The vendors themselves could face even stiffer penalties, ranging from €750 to €1,500 (£640 to £1280).

The measure applies across the entire municipality, including hotspots such as Playa de Palma, Arenal, and Sant Miquel pedestrian areas, with enforcement overseen by police in the Litoral district.

Officers are expected to monitor areas stretching from Can Pere Antoni to S’Arenal, where street vending has long been prevalent.

The local government has also launched an information campaign targeting both residents and visitors, aiming to raise awareness of the risks associated with purchasing from unlicensed sellers.

Officials argue that these transactions not only fuel a shadow economy but also undercut law-abiding vendors and pose safety concerns.

However, the policy has faced criticism, with some campaigners highlighting the disproportionate impact on tourists and local buyers, who are easier to trace and fine, compared to street sellers who often operate without a fixed address.

The crackdown fulfills a campaign promise made by Mayor Jaime Martinez of the Partido Popular in 2023, when he pledged to prioritise security in Palma’s tourist districts and stamp out illegal vending “with total impunity.”

The ordinance doesn’t stop at street sellers. It also targets issues like electric scooter misuse, graffiti, prostitution, public nudity, and the notorious party stunt known as balconing.

While Palma tightens regulations, there are also efforts underway to support former vendors.

A programme called ‘T’acompanyo’, launched by the Balearic ministry for social affairs, offers training and assistance to help individuals transition out of illegal street trading and into formal employment.