Prague finalizes ban on street performances with animals

In a move to protect animals from exploitation, Prague's city council has approved a new ordinance banning street performances, or busking, involving animals. This decision, reached on Oct. 25, amends existing regulations on street art in the city.

Once officially published, the ordinance will prohibit not only the active involvement of animals in performances but also their mere presence alongside performers. Prague Deputy Mayor Jiří Pospíšil stated that the measure is designed to address both animal welfare concerns and public safety, as stressed animals could pose risks to bystanders.

Prague officials also intended to restrict animal-related begging, but this move has met with obstacles. A related proposal to ban begging with animals was rejected by the Interior Ministry, which deemed begging a right and opposed a city-wide restriction.

Consequently, officials are exploring alternative approaches with regards to begging involving animals. The city is discussing expanding the scope of specific no-begging zones in cooperation with the central district, Prague 1, while also enhancing enforcement by city police to monitor begging activities more closely.

Animal exploitation has been an ongoing concern in Prague, especially in tourist-heavy areas like Old Town Square. Officials have reported frequent incidents of people using exotic animals such as owls and snakes to solicit tips in exchange for photos.

Under existing city regulations, using wild animals in such contexts has been illegal, and municipal police can issue fines or even confiscate animals in cases of repeated violations. Nonetheless, the enforcement of these laws has proven challenging. City representatives cite instances where violators, often from outside the Czech Republic, evade fines by leaving the country.

Additionally, dogs fall outside the current regulations applied to wild or exotic animals, which further complicates enforcement. According to Pospíšil, dogs used by performers or beggars aren’t legally considered to be involved in “active performance,” which means current animal protection laws offer limited recourse.

Prague’s steps to curtail animal exploitation align with broader European trends towards prioritizing animal welfare and responsible tourism. The city has launched awareness campaigns, such as the "Enjoy Respect Prague" initiative, which advises tourists against paying for selfies with animals.

Posters for the campaign have been displayed across popular tourist zones and hubs, including Václav Havel Airport, in an effort to dissuade visitors from supporting these exploitative practices.