If I were a mayor for a day, I'd pass an edict that every utility company digging up an urban street would have to pay a tree tax in kind.

Thousands refused to pay their taxes.

Moreover, cities with budget shortfalls tended to hand out more, and heftier, traffic fines.

For an annual fee, you can have your company name on the shirts that sporting team or individual wears.

A female friend, like countless other young couples in China, had to pay a large fine for having a second child. But she believed the money was worth it.