Belo Horizonte imposes R$ 1,500 fine for public drug use

Belo Horizonte has implemented a new municipal law, Law No. 12.102/2026, which imposes an administrative fine of R$ 1,500 on individuals caught possessing or consuming illicit drugs in public spaces. The penalty amount will be adjusted annually based on the IPCA-E inflation index.

The law applies to a wide range of public areas, including streets, avenues, squares, sidewalks, bike paths, public offices, and football fields. This administrative sanction is independent of any potential criminal liability under federal law.

The legislation was enacted after the City Council overturned a total veto by the Executive branch. To ensure accuracy and prevent errors based on mere suspicion, seized materials must undergo official forensic evaluation to confirm the nature and quantity of the substance before the fine is finalized.