A rising number of French resorts are imposing fines on men who go shirtless in town centres, marking a shift in local attitudes toward public toplessness away from beaches. While bare-chestedness remains legal on most beaches, approximately 20 municipalities in France have introduced regulations over the past two years banning men from removing their shirts in urban areas, citing reasons of hygiene, public decency, and the desire to maintain a family-friendly environment.

One of the latest resorts to enforce such a ban is Narbonne, a Mediterranean tourist town that implemented its seasonal prohibition starting June 15. The town, which hosts around 9 million visitors annually, has levied fines of €150 for bare-chested men found in public areas away from the beach. The municipality also prohibits walking barefoot or wearing only swimwear in the town centre. Mayor Bertrand Malquier explained the measures as a way to uphold hygiene standards and prevent what he termed "exhibitionism."

Local business owners have expressed support for the restrictions. Anthony Hill, who manages a restaurant in Narbonne’s city centre, indicated that the rules help staff avoid disputes with customers who might be uncomfortable with bare-chested individuals nearby. Similarly, in other resorts like Deauville on the Channel coast, penalties for shirtlessness in town centres have increased from €17 to €150 in recent years as authorities seek to discourage the practice.

The rationale for these bans also reflects broader cultural and social changes in France. While the image of topless sunbathing shaped by icons such as Brigitte Bardot in the 1960s remains iconic, fewer young women now choose to go topless, motivated by concerns over modesty, unwanted attention, social media criticism, and health risks such as skin cancer. The rising preference for more modest dress codes extends to men's conduct in public spaces as well.

However, not all residents and visitors agree with the stricter enforcement. Some critics, like a local man identifying himself as Gabriel, argue on social media that prohibiting bare chests in urban areas is excessive and unnecessary. Others, including a woman interviewed in La Grande Motte—a resort with comparable regulations—support the bans on grounds of decency and comfort, citing the unpleasant experience of passing shirtless men with body odor while out with children.

Across the border, Spanish resorts have taken even harsher measures against male toplessness in public spaces, particularly targeting the "beer belly" phenomenon prevalent among some tourists. In places like Marbella, fines can reach up to €750, reflecting a strong disapproval of shirtlessness in shopping districts, restaurants, and other town centres. These penalties are often directed at British holidaymakers who are perceived as disregarding local customs regarding public attire.

While proponents of the bans emphasize hygiene and public decorum, some commentators suggest that clearer signage or public awareness campaigns could address concerns without resorting to punitive fines. Nonetheless, authorities in France and Spain appear committed to reinforcing dress codes in urban tourist areas as part of broader efforts to regulate behavior and enhance visitor experience during peak seasons.