Responsible Budapest

Paying fines:
On-the-spot fines are issued by police officers or public space inspectors. These frequently must be paid on-site by bank card (via POS terminal) or via postal check. Offering cash (a bribe) to a member of the authority is a severe criminal offense (bribery), which results in immediate custody.

On-the-spot fine (Public alcohol consumption, noise violation, public cleanliness offense): Typically 10,000 – 50,000 HUF (depending on the severity of the offense).

The regulation of public alcohol consumption varies by district. Drinking wine during a quiet picnic in parks (e.g., Margaret Island, City Park) is more socially tolerated than drinking beer while walking on Váci utca or in the nightlife district. However, to avoid risks, refraining from open street drinking everywhere is justified.