Tourist areas getting enhanced monitoring, stricter enforcement of noise levels
30 cameras to monitor Swieqi's streets, noise monitoring in four Valletta streets
The government has announced a series of enforcement measures aimed at improving quality of life for residents in tourist-heavy localities, including enhanced surveillance systems, stricter accommodation rules and on-the-spot fines for foreign offenders.
The initiatives were unveiled during a visit to Swieqi by Foreign Affairs and Tourism Minister Ian Borg and the Minister for Home Affairs Byron Camilleri.
They form part of a pilot project launched in 2025 to better support communities affected by tourism.
Among the key measures is the rollout of a more advanced surveillance network in Swieqi. Funded by the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) and implemented in collaboration with the local council, the upgraded system includes 30 cameras strategically placed across the locality. Some are equipped with pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) technology and will be monitored around the clock by LESA officials from a central control room. The system will integrate with a wider monitoring network covering Paceville and St Julian’s, with authorities saying it will improve enforcement efficiency for both residents and visitors.
Meanwhile, Valletta is set to receive noise monitoring systems in four of its busiest streets—Republic Street, Merchants Street, Strait Street and St Paul’s Street.
The devices will detect excessive noise levels, particularly at night, and automatically alert the police.
The minister stressed that the systems are designed to protect privacy, as they will not record voices or audio but will measure noise levels only.
In another measure, the government will provide a fleet of new electric vehicles to the Community Police, particularly for use in high-tourism areas. These vehicles are being funded through environmental contributions paid by tourists visiting Malta.
The ministers said the move will strengthen the presence and responsiveness of community policing in busy localities.
On-the-spot fines for tourists
From June 1, police, LESA officers and officials from the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) will be able to issue immediate fines to foreign nationals, including tourists, who break the law while in Malta.
The fines must be paid electronically on the spot. The measure, introduced through new regulations, aims to address persistent issues with unpaid penalties and to act as a stronger deterrent.
Stricter rules for short-let accommodation
Borg said new regulations governing short-term tourist accommodation will come into force this summer, imposing tighter obligations on property owners. Hosts will be required to display a sign at the property entrance showing the licence number and a 24/7 contact number for a responsible person who can handle complaints.
Properties within apartment blocks must also provide this information to building administrators. In addition, property owners must implement adequate waste management plans. Those found operating without a valid MTA licence will face a three-year disqualification, along with other penalties.
The measures form part of a broader pilot scheme led by the Tourism Ministry in collaboration with other ministries, currently focused on Swieqi and Valletta. Based on its outcomes, the project could be extended to other localities.