Policy on al fresco dining 'has no bite'

The enforcement policy of hygiene authorities on illegal extensions of restaurants onto the streets is faulty and in need of an overhaul, the Ombudsman says.

"Many people like eating alfresco, but there are also many complaints about these places because of street obstruction, noise and hygiene problems," Alan Lai Nin said.

The watchdog, in an investigation, identified a list of problems in the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department's enforcement policy.

First, health inspectors, who work from 8.30am to 6pm, are often unable to take action because most restaurants move their tables and chairs onto the streets only at dinner time.

And even when an operator had its licence suspended or cancelled for operating outside its premises or blocking the streets, the "lenient" licensing system allowed it to apply for a new one regardless of whether it involved the same premises or restaurant name, said Maisy Ng Chu Mei-chu, the Ombudsman's senior investigation officer.

"Why are the restaurants not deterred? Because the penalties are nothing compared to their profits. They just see it as paying a rent," Lai said.

Fines for operating a restaurant outside its designated premises range between HK$2,000 and HK$3,000.