Temporary ban on festive musical gatherings and prohibition of vehicles transporting sound equipment

Updated on 11/09/2026

Unauthorized festive musical gatherings are regularly taking place in the department of Haute-Garonne, as has occurred repeatedly in May 2026.

These gatherings, often held in abandoned sites that may lead to accidents, constitute a public health issue, particularly due to the massive consumption of alcohol and the sale of illegal drugs. In addition, the noise pollution generated by these gatherings, as well as the damage caused to unauthorized occupied land, lead to disturbances of public order and the environment.

Thus, taking into account the risks of public order disturbances, security, and safety posed by such gatherings, combined with the absence of prior declaration of these events, Fabrice RIGOULET-ROZE, Prefect of the region Occitanie and Prefect of Haute-Garonne, has decided by order to prohibit, from Saturday 12 September 2026 at 00:01 until Sunday 1 November 2026 at 23:59:

* The holding of festive gatherings with a musical character (free-party, rave, teknival) meeting the criteria set out in Article R211-2 of the Internal Security Code, namely:

«1° They involve the broadcast of amplified music;

2° The expected number of people present at the location exceeds 500;

3° Their announcement is to be made through press, posting, distribution of leaflets, or by any means of communication or telecommunications;

4° They may present risks to the safety of participants due to lack of facilities or the layout of the location.»

* The movement of vehicles transporting equipment likely to be used for festive events with a musical character, across the entire road network of the department.

Given the recent increase in this phenomenon, penalties for organizing and participating in musical gatherings have been strengthened, pursuant to the enactment of the so-called « RIPOST » law (Immediate responses to public order disturbances, security threats, and the tranquility of our citizens).

Thus, organizing an unregistered gathering becomes a criminal offense punishable by 2 years in prison and a fine of 30,000 € (previously a simple administrative fine), with possible additional penalties. Participation is also prohibited, and a fine of 500 € may be issued directly on site.