On Thursday, São Paulo City Hall announced that it has levied fines against two companies for closing sidewalks without municipal authorization to construct 'VIP areas' during the carnival block parades. This action follows incidents reported during the parades, which took place on Sunday, February 8, and involved blocking pedestrian access in the city’s popular neighborhoods while charging attendees for access to these exclusive areas.

One notable case involves the real estate company Housi, which closed a sidewalk in front of one of its properties on Avenida Brigadeiro Faria Lima to facilitate a VIP viewing area for the Beleza Rara parade, featuring Banda Eva. This incident drew significant public attention and outrage after it was highlighted on social media by city council member Nabil Bonduki. Footage of Housi’s CEO, Alexandre Lafer Frankel, promoting the VIP area also contributed to the virality of the situation, further illuminating the tensions between public space usage and commercial interests.

The enforcement of city regulations in this instance highlights the ongoing struggle in urban areas between maintaining public access and accommodating private business endeavors during large public events. The fines underscore the city's stance against unauthorized business practices during such significant cultural celebrations and reflect broader issues of accessibility, urban planning, and commercialization in public spaces.