Sai Kung villa owner fined HK$66,600 over illegal structures
On.cc · 2 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
A property owner was convicted at Kwun Tong Magistrates' Courts on September 22 after failing to comply with a demolition order issued under the Buildings Ordinance. The court imposed total fines of HK$66,600, including HK$61,600 for the number of days the offence continued.
The case concerned a villa on Sai Kung Highway with unauthorized structures and extensions covering about 97 square metres, together with alterations to an approved rooftop slab. The Buildings Department had issued the demolition order because the works had not received prior approval and consent.
Key Points
- The conviction was handed down at Kwun Tong Magistrates' Courts on September 22 after the owner failed to comply with a statutory demolition order.
- The total fine was HK$66,600, of which HK$61,600 was imposed for the continuing duration of the offence.
- The enforcement case involved several unauthorized structures and extensions at a Sai Kung Highway villa, with a combined area of about 97 square metres.
- The case also involved alterations to an approved rooftop slab at the same property, according to the Buildings Department.
- Under the Buildings Ordinance, failing without reasonable excuse to comply with a demolition order can bring a maximum HK$200,000 fine, one year in jail, and daily fines of up to HK$20,000 for a continuing offence.
Why It Matters
The case shows that ignoring a demolition order can sharply increase penalties because courts may add fines tied to each day an offence continues.
For Hong Kong property owners, the prosecution is a reminder that unauthorized building works can lead not only to removal orders but also to criminal conviction if those orders are not obeyed.
For Hong Kong property owners, the prosecution is a reminder that unauthorized building works can lead not only to removal orders but also to criminal conviction if those orders are not obeyed.