Campinas bans betting ads across municipal public spaces

The municipality of Campinas has moved to prohibit betting advertisements in all public areas, becoming the latest city in Brazil to tighten marketing rules for licensed operators.

A decree published in the city's Official Gazette targets fixed-odds betting platforms — commonly called bets — and bars their promotion on billboards, street furniture, public transit vehicles, and licensed taxis. The measure also prohibits sponsorship and advertising tied to sporting, cultural, and entertainment events held on municipal property.

The decree acknowledges that betting is regulated at the federal level, but asserts the city's jurisdiction over land use, public spaces, and outdoor advertising. Officials say the action limits where betting ads can appear rather than restricting operators' activities. Mayor Dário Saadi framed the policy as child and family protection: "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 restrictions were developed in response to worries that widespread betting advertising can normalize gambling as a source of income, stretch family budgets, and worsen mental health problems and compulsive behavior. The goal, he explained, is a more responsible urban environment consistent with public policies on child protection, public health, and responsible consumption.

Institutional communications and advertising required under federal law are excluded from the ban. Setec will handle enforcement and can impose penalties ranging from permit revocation to termination of concessions. Advertisers and operators with existing contracts involving public property have 90 days to adjust their agreements before contractual sanctions apply.