British tourists visiting France this summer could be fined up to €150 (£129.62) for appearing topless in public, following new rules enacted during a heatwave. The ban applies to all nationalities and targets men going bare-chested in public spaces, particularly in coastal towns such as Narbonne in southern France.
Reasons Behind the Ban
The measures have been introduced for varying reasons, including maintaining respect for urban spaces and hygiene. In Narbonne, the ban will remain in effect until the end of September. Residents have largely supported the initiative.
Anthony Hill, a 53-year-old Australian living in Narbonne, told the Times: “This isn’t something the staff of our café can easily police on their own without getting into arguments with customers. So I think it’s a very good thing. Having bare-chested guys on the terrace can put off other customers.”
Local mayor Bertrand Malquier added: “It’s about hygiene and avoiding exhibitionism.”
Public Support for Decency Rules
Similar sentiments were echoed in La Grande-Motte, where resident Marie, 37, expressed her support: “If I’m out with my kids in the town centre I really don’t want to see guys without shirts. It’s a matter of decency — and there’s also the smell when they walk past you.”
French Twitter user Yannick Moreau also backed the ban, stating: “This is inappropriate behaviour that has an unfortunate tendency to increase year after year. So it's time to make it clear: it is forbidden to walk around shirtless or in swimwear in Les Sables d'Olonne. A bit of decency, please!”
Additional Restrictions in Paris
Beyond the topless ban, Paris has introduced a prohibition on drinking takeaway alcohol in the street. The ban began at midday on June 26 and will run until 7:00 a.m. local time on Saturday, then resume at midday Saturday until 7:00 a.m. Sunday.
Paris police chief Patrice Faure explained to BFM TV: “As you know, drinking alcohol with the sun beating down can have a devastating effect. We are reaching a saturation point in hospital facilities. I must ensure that the pressure decreases.”
The heatwave has placed significant strain on hospitals, and the city’s LGBTQ+ Pride march has been delayed until September due to the extreme temperatures.
