FEHD expedites approval of applications for outside seating accommodation of restaurants through new "joint-vetting" mechanism
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A spokesman for the FEHD said, "Previously, the median processing time for OSA applications was 12 months from receipt of application to approval. Under the new arrangements, applications which are simple and straightforward are expected to be approved in principle within about one month, with applicants informed of the detailed licensing requirements."
The spokesman added, "Application requirements have also been suitably relaxed. For example, eligible restaurants will not be required to increase food room areas and sanitary fitments for the OSA. Applications involving walkways with a remaining width of 3 metres or more after the provision of OSA will generally be considered as meeting the traffic requirements. Each relevant department will also assign a dedicated case manager to handle applicant's enquiries."
Under the new arrangements, the application form has been enhanced to ensure that each relevant department receives necessary information upfront, expediting the approval process. District Offices will conduct local consultations in parallel. If no objections are raised, applications will be approved in principle; formal approval will be granted once applicants comply with licensing requirements and inspections are completed by the FEHD and relevant departments. For complex cases arising during the "joint-vetting", the relevant Permanent Secretaries and even the Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration will step in to resolve issues. After approval of OSA, the departments will conduct audit checking as necessary to ensure that there are no violations.
The Chief Executive announced in the 2025 Policy Address that the FEHD and relevant departments would expedite OSA applications of restaurants and streamline procedures. Under the leadership of the Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration, the FEHD and relevant departments had earlier streamlined procedures, formulated internal guidelines, and briefed the trade on the new arrangements. Details of the new application arrangements and forms are available on the FEHD website (www.fehd.gov.hk/english/licensing/guide.html#OutsideSeatingAccommodation). The application forms also provide enquiry hotlines for each relevant department.
Ends/Wednesday, April 1, 2026
Issued at HKT 14:30
Issued at HKT 14:30
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