2026 World Cup: see what is prohibited when decorating and painting the streets

The biggest sporting event in the world and national passion, the World Cup, has the characteristic of stirring the spirits of Brazilians, in the five-time champion country. Every four years, Brazilians only think about this: when will the streets be decorated?

The issue - which is already part of the culture of most urban centers in the country - dialogues with social and legal principles. How far can Brazilians' freedom of expression advance over rules and laws?

Local legislation
The delimitations of demonstrations, as a rule, in large urban centers are in local legislation.

In São Paulo, for example, the largest city in the country, demonstrations are allowed on roads. Although common at this time, the practice is not free from restrictions. Decorations and paintings cannot interfere with road signs, nor contain commercial or offensive messages, under the risk of inspection and sanctions.

In places considered historical heritage or listed areas, legislation requires express authorization from the competent preservation bodies before any painting.

Road safety and signage
The Traffic Engineering Company (CET), in a note sent to CNN Brasil, informed that any intervention must respect traffic signage.

See also: Lula says that green and yellow cannot be taken over by "fascists" at the World Cup

Decorations cannot obstruct the visibility of traffic lights, signs (vertical signage) or markings on the ground (horizontal signage).

The Brazilian Traffic Code establishes that it is prohibited to place advertising or inscriptions that may cause confusion or interfere with the visibility of signs.

Events require authorization
Any event or work that may disturb the free movement of vehicles and pedestrians requires prior permission from the authority with jurisdiction over the road.

Disobeying the rules may result in penalties. Among the sanctions foreseen are fines and immediate removal of obstacles.

Source: CNN