Full list of costly hot weather mistakes that could land you a £5,000 fine – how to avoid them

The Sun

6 hours ago

MILLIONS of Brits are set to enjoy the sunshine outdoors this weekend, with temperatures soaring as high as 34°C today.
Beaches, parks, and pubs across the country will be buzzing as people soak up the warm weather and celebrate the summer solstice.
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But before you grab your picnic basket and head outdoors, it's worth knowing that a few seemingly harmless activities could land you with a hefty fine.
Katy Phillips, money-saving expert at Idealo, said: "Before you pack your basket and head out, make sure you're familiar with the rules of the park you're visiting.
"Many public parks have their own restrictions, especially when it comes to music, barbecues, and alcohol. Checking ahead of time can save you the hassle and money."
Idealo have revealed six common park habits that could leave your wallet significantly lighter.
So, to help you enjoy the sunshine without breaking the bank, here's a rundown of potential pitfalls and how to avoid them.
Playing loud music - £5,000
Think twice before blasting your favourite playlist at your local park.
Playing loud music in certain parks can result in fines of up to a whopping £5,000.
London's Royal Parks, for example, have a strict ban on amplified music, even at low volumes, deeming it a public nuisance.
To check the rules for your local park, visit gov.uk/find-your-local-park.
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Littering - £400
This one should be obvious, but it's worth repeating that dropping rubbish or leaving picnic waste behind can land you with a fine of up to £400.
Some councils offer a reduced rate of around £200 if you pay promptly, but failure to do so could lead to prosecution and a court fine of up to £2,500.
Always take your rubbish home with you or dispose of it in designated bins.
Feeding the wildlife - £150
It might seem kind, but feeding squirrels or birds is a no-no in many parks and could cost you £150.
It's often considered littering, as leftover food can attract pests and create a mess.
One Londoner learned this the hard way in 2021, receiving a fine for feeding squirrels.
Using disposable barbecues - £100
Disposable barbecues might seem like a convenient way to cook up a feast, but using them in prohibited areas can lead to a £100 fixed penalty.
Places like Brighton & Hove's seafront and parks have banned them due to the risk of fire and environmental damage.
Opt for a picnic instead, or check if the park has designated barbecue areas.
Five day weather forecast
Today
A warm, bright start but turning cloudier from the south through the morning. Scattered, showers spread across the southwest, moving northeastwards by the afternoon bringing a risk of heavy showers, thunderstorms, and hail to northern England and Wales later.
Tonight
Heavy showers and thunderstorms in the north gradually clear overnight. Mostly dry with clear spells elsewhere, although further heavy showers in the northwest by dawn. Feeling fresher in the west.
Sunday
Fresher for most with breezy westerly winds bringing sunshine and scattered showers, a few thunderstorms in the northwest. Drier and brighter in the southeast but staying warm and humid here.
Outlook for Monday to Wednesday
Breezy westerly winds continue to bring a mixture of sunshine and showers, these heaviest in the north and west. Near average temperatures, though feeling warm in the sunshine. Fresher nights.
Drinking alcohol in restricted areas - £100
Fancy a tipple in the park?
Drinking alcohol in areas covered by a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) can result in an on-the-spot £100 fine.
In Hammersmith & Fulham, for example, the PSPO applies to all public places.
Check local council websites to see if a PSPO is in place before you crack open a cold one.
You can find yours by visiting gov.uk/find-local-council.
Dog fines - £80
Love letting your furry friend roam free?
Failing to keep your dog on a lead in restricted zones, such as near children's playgrounds or wildlife areas, can result in an £80 fine.
Councils like Hackney enforce these rules to protect both people and animals.
Always pay attention to signage indicating where leads are required.