Singapore slaps £300 fines on bus passengers who play loud music without headphones from today

From the Newshound archive · first published 23 September 2026 · last updated 24 September 2026.

Singapore has introduced fines of up to S$500 (£294) for bus passengers who play music or videos at loud volumes without headphones, with the rules taking effect from Wednesday 23 September. The Land Transport Authority said the crackdown covers a range of commuter offences — including placing feet on seats, dropping litter, and consuming food or drink on board — bringing bus regulations into line with standards that have long applied to the rail network.

Ticket inspectors and authorised bus staff can issue fines — but bus drivers themselves have no power to penalise passengers.

Far steeper penalties of up to S$5,000 (£2,942) apply for serious offences such as soiling a bus or causing danger to fellow commuters.

The LTA said public transport is "a shared space" and every commuter must play their part in ensuring "a gracious and pleasant commuting environment".