According to the municipality, the objective is to obtain “contributions for the harmonisation of the city's nightlife”, to try to stop the phenomenon of drinking in public spaces, to control the sale of drinks and to reduce noise at night.

One of the measures of the amendment to the regulation is the use of hydrophobic paint, which protects walls and property by repelling urine against the offender.

The initiative had already been introduced by the Porto Chamber before the pandemic began, but in order not to contribute to the spread of Covid-19, it was suspended.

Contrary to what would be expected, the informal gatherings of groups drinking in public spaces intensified during the pandemic. With bars and clubs closed, drinks continued to be sold over the counter and one of the side effects of this was public urination.

Ana Cláudia Almeida, director of Movida, explained the measure of hydrophobic paint to the council at the last Executive meeting. Its application “will be reinforced”, as it is seen as one of the most effective solutions, according to a report by Jornal de Notícias.

The paint is already used in several European cities, to defend urban heritage, and repels urine against the offender, who is left with wet trousers and shoes. It also allows the sites to be easily cleaned by the municipality.