Cape Town to enforce zero-tolerance alcohol rule in public spaces this festive season
Ntuthuzelo Nene
19 November 2025 | 4:26Smith said metro and law enforcement officers will maintain high visibility across beaches and public areas to enforce by-laws and ensure safety.

Metro police officers at launch of the City of Cape Town's festive season beach safety plan in Muizenberg on 18 November 2025. Picture: Ntuthuzelo Nene/EWN
Cape Town Safety and Security MMC JP Smith said there'll be zero tolerance for alcohol possession or consumption in public this festive season.
The city launched its Safer Festive Season campaign at Muizenberg beach on Tuesday.
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Smith said metro and law enforcement officers will maintain high visibility across beaches and public areas to enforce by-laws and ensure safety.
He said officers will also prioritise residents in gang-affected communities.
"A big challenge for us every festive season is alcohol. If we reduce the amount of alcohol on the beach, we reduce the drownings, we reduce the interpersonal conflicts.
"Many of our ailments flow from alcohol, especially silly accidents, people who get themselves hurt often under the influence. For us, keeping the alcohol off the beaches is important. We ask people please don't bring alcohol to the beach we will impound it."
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