Following a spate of drownings this summer, France has announced an increase in fines for people caught swimming in prohibited areas or ignoring red flag warnings.

A decree published in France's Journal Officiel raised the fixed fine for swimming in prohibited areas from €38 to €68.

The new rules apply across France and are aimed at discouraging people from swimming in dangerous places after a sharp rise in fatal drownings during this summer's heatwaves.

The government said the tougher penalties are intended to crack down on risky behaviour that can lead to drownings and put other people using rivers, lakes and other waterways at risk.

The change follows a joint request from the Paris Police Préfecture and the Île-de-France regional Préfecture, which said they had seen a rise in people swimming in unauthorised locations, particularly during heatwaves.

French health authorities said that 274 people, including 37 children and teenagers, died by drowning over a period of around two and a half months, with the majority of deaths occurring during heatwave conditions.

What is now prohibited?

The increased fine applies to anyone who:

  • Swims in an area where bathing has been banned by a municipal or prefectural order.
  • Enters the water when a red warning flag is flying, indicating that swimming is prohibited because conditions are considered dangerous.
  • Takes part in water sports such as canoeing, kayaking or paddleboarding in areas where these activities have been banned.
  • Fails to comply with certain navigation safety regulations governing France's inland waterways.

How much can the fine go up to?

The offence is classified as a third-class contravention under French law. While the standard fixed fine is €68, the maximum penalty can reach €450 if the case is referred to a police court.

The government hopes the tougher sanctions will discourage dangerous swimming during periods of hot weather, when rivers, lakes and canals often attract people looking for relief from the heat despite the risks.

READ ALSO: Everything you need to know about swimming in the Seine in summer 2026