Brazil: Campinas bans betting ads in public spaces

Campinas has banned betting advertisements across municipal public spaces, becoming the latest Brazilian city to restrict the marketing of licensed betting operators.

A decree published in the city's Official Gazette prohibits fixed-odds betting platforms, known in Brazil as bets, from advertising on billboards, street furniture, public transport vehicles and licensed taxis across the municipality. 

The measure also bans sponsorships and advertising linked to sporting, cultural and entertainment events held in municipal public spaces.

The decree states that while betting companies are regulated at the federal level, the municipality has authority over land use, public spaces and outdoor advertising within its jurisdiction. 

Officials argue that the measure does not restrict betting operations, only where their advertising may appear.

Mayor Dário Saadi said the decree is intended to protect children and families. He said: "We are not prohibiting the activity of betting companies, but defining how their advertising can occupy the city's public spaces."

Enrique Lerena, president of Setec, Campinas' public works and services agency, said the restriction responds to concerns that widespread betting advertising can normalize gambling as a source of income, strain family budgets and exacerbate mental health issues and compulsive behavior. 

He said the goal is to promote a more responsible urban environment aligned with public policies on child protection, public health and responsible consumption.

Institutional communications and advertising required under federal law are exempt from the ban. Setec will oversee enforcement and may impose penalties ranging from the revocation of permits to the termination of concessions for non-compliance. 

Operators and advertisers with existing contracts involving public property will have 90 days to bring them into compliance before facing contractual sanctions.