Littering in an outdoor space can cost Brits up to £150 (Image: Getty)
While Brits are currently still having fun in the sun, there are some hidden fines many will not be aware of. From littering laws to footwear fines, being unaware of these rules could cost Brits a lot of money – with some penalties charging rulebreakers up to £5000.
To spread awareness of these fines The Sun has complied a list of seven common hot weather habits that Brits might not be aware are illegal. Fines can differ significantly depending on the extremity of the violation. But, if Brits keep these rules in mind, there’ll be no problem staying on the right side of the law this summer.
Brits could receive a fine for barbecuing in the wrong place (Image: Getty)
1. Barbecuing on beaches and in parks
While undoubtedly a fun summer activity, Brits could actually get in a lot of trouble for barbecuing in the wrong place.
The Countryside Code states: “Only use BBQs where signs state they are allowed. Always put your BBQ out, make sure the ashes are cold and dispose of them responsibly”.
The severity of these fines depends on the local area so it’s important to look out for signs around you.
2. Driving in flip flops
Driving in the wrong shoes could cost Brits up to £5,000. While not directly illegal,being involved in a car accident and being found wearing flip flops at the scene could be deemed as breaking the Highway Code.
While careless driving carries a fine of £100 along with an additional three points on your license, more serious cases taken to court could result in a cost of up to £5,000 and nine penalty points.
3. Urinating in public
When there are no toilets nearby, on a beach or in a park this may seem okay. However, you can be fined hundreds of pounds for urinating in public.
The amount depends on your local council but, as an example, Basingstoke and Deane fine up to £500. Police officers also hold the right to issue a Penalty Notice for Disorder which has fines beginning at £60.
4. Driving without sunglasses or with the wrong sunglasses
Drivers could get fined up to £5000 for leaving sunglasses behind, especially if involved in an accident. While it’s not a legal requirement to wear sunglasses, the Highway Code advises motorists to slow down or pull over if they are “dazzled by bright sunlight”.
5. Driving with pets
Driving with an unrestrained pet is very much illegal with a hefty fine of up to £5,000 for careless driving and a potential ban with a mandatory re-test.
Pet owners should ensure their pet is secured with a seat belt harness, pet carrier or guard.
It’s vital that your pet is not distracting you whatsoever, as this alone can cost drivers up to £1,000 for driving without proper control.
6. Taking pebbles from the beach
This seemingly harmless act can result in fines of up to £1,000, with similar rules applying to sand and shells.
While many councils choose not to enforce this law, fines can still be applied so better to be safe than sorry.
7. Littering in outdoor public spaces
Littering in an outdoor space is a common bad habit in public spaces like parks and beaches.
However, Brits should be careful as this crime can result in fines up to £150 by the council and £60 from a police officer.