Skip to content
In this section
Share this page

Public Spaces Protection Orders

We use Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) to help prevent behaviours that negatively impact the quality of life in our communities.

What is a PSPO?

Under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, local authorities, in partnership with the police, can issue Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) to address behaviours that cause harm or nuisance in public spaces.

PSPOs are designed to tackle specific issues such as excessive noise, street drinking, begging, and anti-social use of bikes or scooters. Any restrictions imposed must be necessary, proportionate, and targeted to prevent problematic behaviours from continuing or recurring.

How are PSPOs enforced?

PSPOs apply to people over the age of 18 who are in designated PSPO areas and they can be enforced by police officers and authorised council officers.

What happens if a PSPO is breached?

A person breaching a PSPO, may face:

  • A £100 Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) issued on the spot
  • A fine of up to £1,000 if the case goes to court

Why do we use PSPOs?

PSPOs help keep public spaces safe, clean, and welcoming for everyone.

Behaviours covered by a PSPO

The following behaviours are regulated under a PSPO in designated areas. See the Leicester PSPO area map (PDF)

Alcohol consumption

  • Drinking alcohol in public must not cause a nuisance.
  • If requested by an authorised officer, individuals must stop drinking and/or surrender alcohol.

Amplified noise

The use of amplification devices, including microphones, loudspeakers, megaphones, and musical amplifiers, is not allowed.

Exemptions apply:

  • Events, marches, and processions authorised by the council or police
  • Licensed premises or vehicles
  • Performers with council permission

Begging

Begging is not allowed if it causes or is likely to cause harassment, alarm, distress, nuisance, or annoyance.

Bikes, e-scooters, and skateboards

Riders must not use bikes, e-bikes, skateboards, or scooters in an anti-social manner. If requested by a police officer or a council officer, the rider must dismount.

It is illegal to ride an e-scooter or an e-bike exceeding 250 watts in a public place—perpetrators will face police enforcement. Advice on e-scooter usage | Leicestershire Police

Exemptions apply:

  • Mobility scooter users
  • Individuals who require an e-bike or e-scooter as a mobility aid and cannot safely dismount

Charity and commercial collections

Charity and commercial collections are not allowed without written permission from the council. More information on the Charitable collection licensing page. 

Unauthorised structures

Setting up structures such as gazebos, tents, marquees, tables, stalls, banners, or promotional flags is not allowed.

Exemptions apply:

  • Individuals with council consent or a valid licence
  • Events or activities authorised by the council
  • Emergency services and responders