The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) has announced strengthened enforcement measures against illegal shop extensions that lead to obstruction, including irregular inspections and video evidence collection.
The department emphasized that the enforcement actions would not disrupt legitimate loading activities but would prosecute based on gathered evidence.
FEHD Senior Superintendent (Legislative Review) Benny Yip Kwok-cheung noted shops often employ "guerrilla" tactics - temporarily removing goods when inspectors approach.
"We've adapted with unpredictable inspection schedules to enhance deterrence," Yip said, adding that the department may extend its successful video evidence approach from illegal hawker operations to shop obstruction cases.
Yip clarified that video evidence involves frontline staff recordings, not CCTV footage.
“For example, inspectors will film in places where the front of the store is clearly visible and use the captured footage as evidence to take law enforcement action,” he said.
He believes such actions can reduce disputes and enhance deterrence, encouraging shops to be more law-abiding.
According to Yip, the department will use fixed penalties for clear-cut violations and court summons for complex cases - with maximum penalties of HK$25,000 fines and 3 months' imprisonment.
Meanwhile, Yip said experienced officers will assess factors like pedestrian flow and shop explanations before enforcing the law.
He also emphasized that the department respects normal business operations but won't tolerate prolonged public space obstructions.
(Khan Heeba Lazmi)
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