According to figures obtained through the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR), Tumbarumba had one of the lowest number of swearing offences in the state last year.

There were just 10 incidents of disorderly conduct (offensive language) in Tumbarumba in 2013.

That compares to 29 in Tumut, 76 in Wagga, 65 in Albury, 24 in Cootamundra, 19 in Griffith and 13 in Narrandera.

The Sydney local government area had the highest number of swearing offences in the state (4293), followed by Parramatta and Newcastle

Despite being the largest inland city in NSW, Wagga was ranked 14th in the number of incidents and had five less offences than Tamworth.

Tumbarumba mayor Ian Chaffey was nonplussed as to why his town was not big on swearing.

"I wouldn't have a bloody clue," Councillor Chaffey said.

"I don't doubt we have a few swearers, whether or not it gets reported, I don't know."

Cr Chaffey said he thought swearing was a part of rural living, but in most cases it was not meant to cause distress or affray.

People can be fined in court for offensive language or given infringement tickets by police.

The state government earlier this year increased the fine for offensive language from $150 to $500.

Wagga police crime manager Detective Inspector Darren Cloake said police used their discretion in issuing tickets for swearing.

"Generally, if police turn up to a domestic situation and tensions are high, then discretion is warranted," Inspector Cloake said.

"Swearing in the street will generally warrant a caution being given and if that warning is not heeded then action will be taken.

"You hear swearing all the time, and you have to put it in context.

"It's on television all the time, you hear it on the footy field."

Social commentator and one of Australia's leading experts on etiquette June Dally-Watkins can't abide swearing.

"It is not acceptable, and never will be acceptable," Miss Dally said.

"It's just that it is everywhere these days with television and Facebook and all these other things."

Miss Dally said increased swearing was part of a lowering of social standards that also included people not watching where they are walking as they speak on mobile telephones.

"I have to dodge people walking and talking on their mobile telephones. They will walk into you and bump into you and not say sorry," Miss Dally said.

"Really, bad language is only a part of it."