A man in Nantes, France, identified only as “David” in reports, was fined after making a speakerphone call in the railway station. A security staff member from France’s state rail operator warned him that the call violated certain noise rules. He initially thought the security was just joking around and proceeded with the call. However, after being fined €200, he realized she was indeed being serious. Can you really get fined for loud public phone calls, though, or is this just a sensationalized story of fiction?
Getting Fined For Making Loud Public Phone Calls in France
First, let’s clarify the situation a bit. The fine that “David” received was not for using his phone in public, but for the noise he made. The transport code of France has explicitly banned the use of any sound devices without prior authorization or if they disturb the peace in public transport or areas. It is categorized as a fourth-class offense that carries a fine of up to €750 ($873USD). This means that you are liable to get a fine if you are having a loud conversation on speakerphone, which disturbs the peace of those around you. That rule applies not only inside of the train, but also to the stations.
While this rule is not particularly new, it is only recently that they have begun to actively enforce it. This is why “David” thought that the security was simply joking. In an interview with BFMTV, he stated that “An SNCF security person told me that if I didn’t turn off my loudspeaker, I was going to be fined €150.” After carrying on with the call, the official proceeded to take out her notebook and fine him. Additionally, since he was not able to pay the fine on the spot, the amount was increased to €200. “David” is not very happy with this outcome, though, and has decided to contest the fine with the assistance of a lawyer.
Other Countries Have Begun Enforcing the Same Rules Regarding Noisy Calls
In April 2025, the Transport and Mobility Authority of Portugal started actively enforcing rules regarding loud calls on public transport that have likewise existed for some time already. The newly policed rule allows authorities to hand out fines ranging between €50 and €250 for using sound devices or making any noise that disturbs other passengers. Portuguese authorities have confirmed that the fines have already been applied, so rather be safe than sorry. You are still allowed to use your phone in public, just not on a speakerphone.
In December 2024, “keep the volume down” posters were spread across buses and trains, with more than 160 offense notices tied to the campaign issued by mid-2025. According to the rapid-transit conduct rules in Singapore, noisy behavior can lead to a fine of up to S$500. For many commuters, this comes as welcome news, as something that was previously just considered bad-mannered behavior is now treated as an enforceable offense. On the other side of the world, Irish Rail recently reminded passengers that it will enforce a €100 penalty for anyone playing music or videos loudly without headphones.
This is in addition to other breaches of public etiquette, such as putting your feet on the seats. The rail company has stated that inspectors “have and will” issue these fines to those who break these rules. There is now a push for the UK to go even further, with Liberal Democrats proposing a ban on loud videos and music on public transport. They have proposed that those who break the rule be fined up to £1,000. However, this change has not yet been implemented.
How to Avoid Getting a Fine for Noise Disruption
While David’s story may currently be considered newsworthy, it points towards an emerging pattern that can be observed across the globe. Not only have they begun to actively fine people in France, but in other places like Portugal and Singapore, too. If you are traveling, it may be a good idea to check up on the laws of the country. Assume that you can potentially be fined if your conversation is loud enough to be heard by others.
While talking with the phone held against your head is still fine in many places, having a blasting conversation on speakerphone will likely result in a hefty fine in some places. If you need to take a call at a public station, try to locate the gangway or vestibule area where you are less likely to get into trouble. If you are planning on listening to music in public, remember to bring a pair of headphones or earphones. While the latest pop hit or underground beat may be great to your ears, those around you may not share your taste in music.
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