Makarska becomes Croatia's first city to restrict night-time alcohol sales

The Makarska City Council approved a measure that bans the sale of alcoholic beverages in shops, bakeries, tobacco outlets and similar retail premises from 21:00 until 06:00 the next morning. The restriction does not apply to bars, restaurants or other hospitality venues, and shop opening hours remain unchanged.

Mayor Zoran Paunović said the rule aims to improve public order, reduce noise, litter and damage to the historic town centre that frequently occur during late‑night tourist gatherings in summer. The city cites public‑health, safety and the preservation of cultural heritage as the legal basis for the decision, which is enabled by recent amendments to the Trade Law allowing local authorities to regulate alcohol sales for the public interest.

Enforcement will be carried out by inspectors from the State Inspectorate, which the city will notify within fifteen days of the vote. Split and Zadar have indicated they may adopt similar restrictions.