How Does Local Laws Work in Costa Rica?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Americas
1The Quick Answer
Costa Rica is generally law-relaxed with a 'pura vida' attitude, but wildlife protection, environmental laws, and anti-drug laws are strictly enforced.
2What You Need to Know
Cannabis possession for personal use has been effectively decriminalized, though public consumption and trafficking remain illegal. Wildlife protection laws are among the strongest in the world — touching, feeding, or harassing wildlife can result in heavy fines, and buying wildlife products or souvenirs made from protected species is illegal. Driving on beaches is prohibited at many coastal areas and enforced with fines. Costa Rica abolished its military in 1948 and has a very relaxed attitude toward photography of security forces, but drug trafficking and possession of hard narcotics carry serious prison sentences.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Never purchase souvenirs made from turtle shells, coral, or exotic animal products — customs seizure and fines apply.
- 2Respect wildlife distance rules in national parks — rangers enforce them seriously.
- 3Check beach driving rules locally; many popular beaches prohibit it entirely.
Important Warning
Hard drug possession and trafficking carries severe penalties including lengthy prison sentences with no special leniency for tourists.
How does this compare?
Local Laws rules in nearby and similar countries:
Drug possession for personal use is partially decriminalized, but firearms are strictly prohibited under any circumstances for tourists.
Cannabis is illegal, littering carries fines, LGBTQ+ rights are legally protected nationwide, and Carnival period carries specific public behavior tolerances that do not apply year-round.
Cannabis is legal federally but rules vary by province — driving under its influence is illegal and strictly enforced.
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More About Costa Rica
A 10% service charge (ley de propina) is legally included in all restaurant bills, so no additional tip is required.
Updated 2025-06
Costa Rica has no national rail system; intercity buses are the cheapest option, while shared tourist shuttles and domestic flights connect remote destinations.
Updated 2025-06
Costa Rica has good private hospitals in San José, but travel insurance is essential as private care is expensive and public hospitals are slow for non-emergencies.
Updated 2025-06
Dial 911 for all emergencies; tourists can also call 1800-TURISMO (1800-887476) for dedicated tourist assistance.
Updated 2025-06
Costa Rica is extremely casual with no strict dress requirements — light clothing is ideal for the coast and layers are needed for cooler highland areas.
Updated 2025-06
The legal drinking age is 18, alcohol is widely available, and drinking on most beaches is legal, but drunk driving is strictly enforced.
Updated 2025-06
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