Rio’s mayor eases his new rules on live beach music after an outcry

RIO DE JANEIRO (AP) — Rio de Janeiro’s mayor on Tuesday loosened new restrictions on live music on the city’s beaches after many people warned of a threat to the dynamic cultural scene.

Mayor Eduardo Paes earlier this month introduced the measures and reinforced existing ones, citing the need to protect public safety and the environment and promote peaceful relations between tourists and residents.

The measures, due to come into effect on Sunday, outlawed food and drink sales, chair rentals, loudspeakers and live music in kiosks without official permits.

Critics warned of the threat to livelihoods of many musicians and local vendors.

Rio’s city government rescinded parts of the decree including the strict regulation of live musical performances and the ban on glass bottles in kiosks. Owners of beach huts will be permitted to display names — not only numbers — as long as they follow an established format.