Yes, You Can Be Fined on the Paris Metro for Carrying a Plant — Seriously
A young journalist learned the hard way that bringing a towering bird of paradise plant on the Paris metro comes with a €150 price tag – but after her story went viral, common sense (and public pressure) prevailed.
The 24-year-old was stopped at République station on Line 3 back in April, plant in hand, when RATP officials decided her leafy companion violated transport rules. After reluctantly paying the hefty fine, she was finally allowed to board with her botanical friend.
But here’s where it gets interesting – once word spread about this seemingly absurd penalty, the internet had a few thoughts to share. Lots of them.
The story sparked a city-wide debate about what exactly counts as acceptable metro baggage, with many pointing out that commuters regularly squeeze on with everything from oversized suitcases on the metro to actual furniture during moves.
RATP eventually saw the light (perhaps influenced by the less-than-flattering headlines) and issued a full refund. Sometimes it takes a little public shaming to remind authorities that a houseplant probably isn’t a threat to public transportation safety.
The whole saga raises an amusing question: in a city where people routinely navigate narrow metro cars with baby strollers, musical instruments, and the occasional pet, why draw the line at something that literally cleans the air?
Why the Fine Became Talk of the Town
Parisians don’t usually bat an eye at the sight of quirky metro riders, but this fine caught everyone off guard. Locals found themselves asking, “Is it really a crime to carry a plant?”
Many locals poked fun: “Next time, I’ll give my ficus a ticket,” one Parisian quipped. Others wondered aloud if baguettes, books, or even small dogs might be next on the prohibited list.
The simple act of bringing a potted plant became a symbol for everyday frustration and the unpredictable rules of big city life.
Luggage Rules for Paris Metro Trains
Travelers on the Paris metro should keep luggage under 75 cm in size—think small suitcases or backpacks.
For anything longer, such as a tall item like a plant or rolled Paris artwork, the metro allows objects up to two meters if their other dimensions are less than 20 cm.
You’re expected to hold these larger items upright, so they don’t get in the way of fellow passengers.
- Standard bags: Maximum 75 cm
- Long objects: Up to 2 meters tall, max 20 cm wide
- Keep luggage close. Don’t block aisles or seats
What Are the Metro’s Rules on Carrying Plants?
The RATP sets rules for the Paris Metro, allowing passengers to bring personal items—bags, suitcases, and, yes, everyday shopping. However, the guidelines don’t clearly state that plants are allowed.
There’s an understanding that anything bulky, awkward, or likely to bother other riders isn’t welcome. Small plants, if kept in bags or securely held, usually don’t cause problems.
But after a recent fine for a woman taking a potted plant on board, many people are left scratching their heads. Enforcement can feel a bit random.
Sometimes, a driver or ticket inspector waves you through with a smile, and other times, a flower pot is treated like you’re lugging a sofa.
Here’s what’s smart to keep in mind:
| What’s Permitted | What To Avoid |
|---|---|
| Small, hand-held plants | Large pots |
| Clean, wrapped greenery | Loose soil or water |
| Plants that don’t block seats | Spiky or overhanging |
It’s practical. If a plant can sit quietly on your lap and doesn’t drip, poke, or spill—most likely, you’ll be fine.
But always expect that rules may change based on who checks your ticket, or if trains are crowded. If in doubt? Ask a staff member before phoning a friend for backup or risking a fine that might wilt your day.
The Official Response and Reimbursement
When news spread of a woman fined for bringing a small plant onto the Paris Metro, public reaction was swift and spirited.
Many commuters and even Metro staff weighed in on social media, with opinions ranging from confusion to bemusement.
RATP, the Metro authority, soon shared a public comment. They clarified that the original intent of the rule was to discourage large, cumbersome items, but they admitted this case was a bit much for a simple potted plant.
While sticking to the letter of their regulations, RATP pointed out the need for some common sense in enforcement.
The authorities reviewed the ticket and agreed it was excessive. The fine was promptly cancelled.
The woman received a full refund. She also got a formal notification confirming the fine had been erased from her record.
Closing Thoughts
Living in Paris means witnessing odd scenes—sometimes, these are so Parisian it hurts.
A woman fined for bringing her leafy friend onto the metro gave everyone something to talk about.
But in Paris, even the tiniest plant can spark a debate about city living.
