Why taking a selfie in Las Vegas could land you in prison

Offenders could face a $1,000 fine or be made to spend up to six months in prison, making it one expensive photo

Stopping on bridges to take selfies overlooking the brightly-lit and famous Las Vegas strip could soon be a thing of the past.

A new law introduced in the US city has banned people from stopping or standing on bridges, or engaging in any activity that causes another person to stop. An exception might be made for someone tying their laces.

Officials say the rules are designed to maintain safety and the flow of pedestrians walking.

Offenders found guilty of breaking the law could be punished with a £1,000 dollar fine or made to spend up to six months in prison.

However, the Washington Post newspaper reports that an arrest or fine is only likely to be issued on the "rare occasion" somebody objected to an officer moving them on and enforcing the ban.

Will the new law make taking selfies less popular?

Las Vegas, in Clark County, in the US state of Nevada is a popular tourist destination, known for it's brightly coloured neon lights and extravagant shows.

The city welcomes more than 30 million visitors each year.

Jennifer Cooper, Clark County's chief communications officer said the new law "will help to ensure our world-class tourism destination remains a safe place for people to visit," adding that "ultimately it will make the experience better for everyone".

Crowds gathered on bridges to watch the first Las Vegas Grand Prix in November

The law comes into effect, just one month before the Super Bowl, America's biggest sporting event, which is due to be held in Las Vegas for the first time this year.

In November, the first Formula One Las Vegas Grad Prix took place in the city, during which many pedestrians crowded on bridges to take photos and selfies of the event.

Las Vegas isn't the first place to enforce a no-selfie rule though.

Last spring, the town of Portofino on the Italian Riviera introduced no-waiting zones to stop tourists from "lingering" in popular beauty spots to take pictures.

Those found to be breaking the rules faced fines of 275 euros (about £242).