São Paulo Bans Animal Feathers in Costumes, Fines Up to R$50,000

São Paulo’s mayor Ricardo Nunes signed a new law on May 27 that bans the use of animal feathers and plumes in costumes, fantasias, and carnival productions. The measure imposes fines between R$5,000 and R$50,000 for violations. Samba schools and event producers must now use synthetic alternatives or face penalties that increase with reincidence.

What the Law Requires

The law, proposed by city councilor Celso Giannazi, prohibits all use of animal feathers and plumes in costumes and carnival productions within São Paulo. Samba schools and event producers must replace natural materials with synthetic alternatives produced industrially. The ban applies to fantasias, alegorias, and any other costume or production type.

Penalties and Fines

Violators face fines between R$5,000 and R$50,000. The city will determine fine amounts based on the severity of the infraction, financial benefit obtained, and repeat offenses. The fines will increase annually using Brazil’s official inflation index, the IPCA. The law took effect immediately upon signing.

Exceptions and Implementation

The law permits feathers and plumes only when obtained as industrial byproducts or naturally shed during the molting process without harming birds. Samba schools and carnival producers now face significant costs to redesign fantasias and floats. The city says the measure combats animal cruelty and promotes sustainable practices in the carnival industry.

Final Thoughts

São Paulo’s feather ban forces carnival producers to adopt synthetic materials or pay steep fines. The law reflects growing pressure to tighten animal protection rules across Brazil.

FAQs

Disclaimer:

The content shared by Meyka AI PTY LTD is solely for research and informational purposes.  Meyka is not a financial advisory service, and the information provided should not be considered investment or trading advice.