Why do we need enforcement?
- To prevent further degradation of the environment in the rural New Territories, since 1991, the Authority, i.e. the Director of Planning has been empowered under the Town Planning Ordinance (the Ordinance) to take enforcement action against unauthorized developments within Development Permission Areas (DPAs). Since 1.9.2023, the enforcement power of the Authority is further extended to “Regulated Areas” (RAs) as designated by the Secretary for Development.
- It is the responsibility of land owners and occupiers to ensure the development on their land conforms to the statutory plans prepared by the Town Planning Board.
- The Central Enforcement and Prosecution Section of the Planning Department is responsible for planning enforcement and prosecution.
