Littering fines in Hong Kong are set to double from October 22, when they will increase from HK$1,500 to HK$3,000. The fixed penalty will also cover people who spit in public and put up bills and posters without approval, as well as pet parents who do not clean up after their dogs poo in public spaces.
The new fines come as a result of an amendment to Cap. 570A, the Fixed Penalty (Public Cleanliness and Obstruction) Regulation. In addition, the penalty for illegally disposing of construction or a large amount of other waste will be HK$6,000 — up from the current HK$2,000 — as will the fine for unauthorised shopfront extensions.
The Hong Kong government has been stepping up its efforts to reduce the negative impact of waste and plastic on the environment. On Wednesday, authorities confirmed that the ban on single-use plastics at restaurants and hotels will come into effect on April 22, 2024.
In addition, the government will also begin charging for municipal waste bags from April 1, 2024. This comes after authorities raised the fees charged for plastic bags from HK$0.5 to HK$1 for in-store and online retailers. Shoppers also no longer get free bags for food and drinks that come in sealed packaging, or fruit and vegetables wrapped in cling film or tissue.
Header image credits: Micah Chan via Flickr
