The United Kingdom government has introduced new measures aimed at making public transport journeys more comfortable by addressing loud music, vaping, littering and other forms of antisocial behaviour on buses and trains.

Announced on  October 2026, the initiative combines new enforcement guidance for local transport authorities in England with a national railway campaign encouraging passengers to respect others by keeping noise under control.

Bus Passengers Could Face Fines for Nuisance Behaviour

Under the new guidance, local transport authorities in England can establish and enforce local rules targeting disruptive behaviour on buses. Depending on the applicable rules, authorised officers may issue fixed penalties of up to £100 for offences such as playing loud music, vaping or littering.

The enforcement process is intended to begin with engagement and an explanation of the rules before further action is taken against passengers who refuse to comply.

Bus drivers will not be responsible for enforcing these measures. Instead, authorised transport safety officers and police will handle incidents in accordance with the relevant procedures.

Railway Campaign Targets Loud Music and Videos

The government has also launched a coordinated campaign encouraging rail passengers to use headphones rather than playing music or videos aloud.

The initiative aims to establish a consistent message across participating railway operators through announcements, posters, websites and social media.

Passengers who refuse to comply with instructions from authorised railway staff may be removed from a train at the next station or face prosecution, with fines potentially reaching £1,000 under the applicable legal provisions.

The campaign reflects concerns that disruptive noise can spoil journeys for other passengers, particularly those who rely on public transport for daily commuting.

Improving Safety and Comfort on Public Transport

Antisocial behaviour can discourage people from using buses and trains, even when public transport offers a convenient and affordable alternative to private vehicles.

Disruptive conduct may also create additional pressure on transport staff, who must maintain order while helping passengers reach their destinations safely.

The new approach gives local authorities greater scope to address problems on bus networks while seeking to make railway rules clearer and more consistent.

However, the effectiveness of the measures will depend on appropriate staffing, consistent enforcement and public awareness of the rules.

What Happens Next?

Local transport authorities will need to follow the applicable procedures when introducing and enforcing local bus rules, including obtaining the required approval before relevant byelaws take effect.

The railway campaign will rely on communication and enforcement to encourage passengers to behave considerately during their journeys.

The measures represent an effort to improve everyday travel through clearer expectations and proportionate enforcement. Their long-term impact will depend on whether passengers change their behaviour and whether transport authorities can apply the rules consistently.