Citizens and store owners caught littering the streets of the capital are to face fines ranging from 20 to 8,000 euros, Athens Mayor Nikitas Kaklamanis said yesterday.

Under the new scheme, citizens will be fined 20 euros for dumping garbage bags outside municipal bins and up to 100 euros for failing to clean up after their pets. Those leaving litter near ancient sites could be fined as much as 8,000 euros.

Store owners also face fines for dumping trash in municipal bins. It must be put in bags bearing the name of their business and deposited in special units up to 30 minutes before collection time. Violators face fines of up to 8,000 euros.

Store owners will also be penalized for violating outdoor table seating restrictions. Additionally, motorists who block garbage bins will be fined and have their cars towed.

Kaklamanis said new equipment would be procured to implement the new scheme.