Square dancers in China may face fines for causing noise pollution

BEIJING -- People who take part in square dancing and other activities in public spaces may face fines for the violation of China's law on the prevention and control of noise pollution, a government spokesperson said Friday.

According to a draft amendment to the law, individuals or organizations who violate the law and refuse to rectify their misconducts after being warned shall be liable for fines of up to 1,000 yuan (around $157) and 20,000 yuan, respectively, said Yue Zhongming, spokesperson for the Legislative Affairs Commission of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee.

The draft amendment stipulates that entertainment and fitness activities in public places, including streets, public squares and parks, should be carried out in accordance with relevant noise control regulations in terms of permissible areas, time periods and noise level.

The draft will be reviewed by the Standing Committee of the NPC, China's top legislature, in its session scheduled from Dec. 20 to 24 in Beijing.