If you, an honest citizen, think you’re complying with the law by never jumping the turnstile, we have news for you: there are several everyday behaviors that can get you into trouble on the São Paulo Metro.
The São Paulo Metro Transportation, Traffic, and Safety Regulations (Law 15.012/78), along with state and federal laws, impose a series of rules of good conduct on public transportation —rules that, if you are a frequent rider, you know not everyone follows on a daily basis.
Depending on the severity of the violation, passengers may receive warnings, be removed from the subway or station, be fined, or even be referred to the authorities. So , check out the prohibitions so you aren’t caught off guard.
Preventing the doors from closing or boarding while the audible alarm is sounding
Holding the doors open to let someone in or even squeezing into the car while the audible alarm is sounding is not only dangerous but also disrupts subway operations. If an employee witnesses this, you may be “asked” (with little option to refuse) to leave the car.
Consuming alcohol/traveling while intoxicated
Did you have one too many drinks and decide to take the subway home? Be aware that the presence of intoxicated individuals is prohibited on subway premises and can cause disturbances.
In addition, consuming alcoholic beverages inside the trains is not permitted, even if it is just “a few sips.” The rule extends, of course, to any other intoxicating substance.
Sitting on the floor of the train car
You’re heading home after a full day at work and all you want is to rest your legs. But when you board the train, you realize that all the seats are taken. What should you do?
If your answer is “sitting on the floor, ” think twice. Although common, the transit system prohibits this practice, as it hinders the movement of other passengers and can cause accidents. Imagine if the train brakes suddenly and someone trips over you?
Traveling with your pet (depending on the time)
Recently, State Law 16.930/19 allowed animals to be transported on public transit in São Paulo. However, pet owners, please pay attention to the rules: this allowance applies only to domestic animals weighing up to 10 kg, which must be in carriers.
In addition, service animals are not permitted on weekdays during peak hours (6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.). Guide dogs and service dogs, on the other hand, have unrestricted access at any time.
Unauthorized occupation of a priority seat
Although many ignore them, the blue stickers are not merely decorative. Improperly occupying a priority seat (that is, when people with disabilities, the elderly, pregnant women, individuals with autism, and other eligible individuals are present) violates Federal Law 10.048/2000.
Although there is no specific fine in São Paulo, you may get a lecture. After all, besides being a violation, it’s disrespectful to those who really need it.
Street vendors under the tracks
It is common for street vendors to walk through the trains offering food, candy, headphones, etc. However, the São Paulo Metro prohibits unauthorized sales on trains and in stations, under penalty of having the merchandise confiscated. Losses may result.
