Hong Kong to Increase Fines for Illegal Parking and Multiple Traffic Offences from January 1, 2026

The Hong Kong government will raise fixed penalty fines for illegal parking and 19 other traffic-related offences starting January 1, 2026, to restore their deterrent effect and enhance road safety.

According to a Transport and Logistics Bureau announcement, fines for these violations have remained unchanged for 31 years since 1994. Inflation has eroded their impact, and levels in Hong Kong are now significantly lower than in many other jurisdictions. Despite ongoing enforcement, certain dangerous behaviours such as speeding, ignoring road markings, and mobile phone use while driving have persisted or even increased.

Key changes include:

• Illegal parking (commonly known as "beef jerky" tickets in local slang): From HK$320 to HK$400 (a 25% increase).

• Speeding:

• Exceeding the limit by 15 km/h or less: From HK$320 to HK$480.

• Exceeding by more than 15 km/h (excluding certain categories): From HK$450 to HK$675.

• Exceeding by more than 30 km/h: From HK$600 to HK$900.

• Exceeding by more than 45 km/h: From HK$1,000 to HK$1,500.

• Other notable offences (increased by approximately 50%):

• Entering yellow-boxed junctions illegally: From HK$400 to HK$600.

• Picking up/dropping off passengers in restricted zones: From HK$560 to HK$840.

• Failing to obey traffic light signals: From HK$600 to HK$900.

• Using a mobile phone or telecommunications device while the vehicle is in motion: From HK$450 to HK$675.

A Transport and Logistics Bureau spokesperson stated: "To address the continuing or even rising trend in some traffic violations, appropriately adjusting the relevant fine amounts will help strengthen road safety and smooth traffic. At the same time, the government will continue to strive to increase parking space supply to address public parking needs and strengthen road safety publicity and education."

The proposals were approved by the Legislative Council on July 30, 2025. While aimed at improving deterrence and traffic flow, the changes have drawn criticism from some lawmakers who argue that raising parking fines without sufficiently expanding parking supply creates public frustration.

Motorists are reminded to comply with traffic rules ahead of the effective date to avoid higher penalties. The government continues to promote road safety education alongside these adjustments.