Passengers playing loud music, vaping or behaving antisocially on public transport are being targeted through new government guidance and a national rail campaign.
The measures, announced on 19 October, include guidance helping local transport authorities in England introduce bus byelaws carrying fixed penalties of up to £100.
The rules could cover excessive noise, littering, vaping and threatening behaviour. Each byelaw requires approval from the Transport Secretary before enforcement can begin.
The underlying powers came into force on 5 August under the Bus Services Act 2025.
Bus drivers will not be responsible for enforcement. Authorised officers will first engage with passengers and explain the rules before taking action if they refuse to comply.
Separately, an industry-led rail campaign will encourage passengers to use headphones rather than play music or videos aloud, a practice known as “loudcasting”.
The government says passengers who refuse to stop when asked by authorised rail staff could be removed from a train or face prosecution, with fines of up to £1,000 under existing rules.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said the measures aimed to make journeys more comfortable and encourage consideration for fellow passengers.
Source: Department for Transport
