Turkey bans smoking on popular beaches, fines up to €32 for violators

Turkish authorities have introduced new smoking restrictions on several Mediterranean beaches as part of the Blue Mediterranean Initiative, which aims to protect marine ecosystems from cigarette litter. The bans took effect on 5 June and cover Lara, Belek, Çamyuva and Beach Park near Antalya, a city that receives roughly 17 million tourists each year.

People caught smoking or discarding cigarette butts in the prohibited zones face fines of about €32, with higher penalties of up to €93 possible if the restrictions are extended nationally. The rule primarily targets tourists, including many visitors from Romania and Moldova, who must observe the no‑smoking areas or risk monetary penalties.