With the Mid-Autumn Festival approaching, the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) today (September 22) reminded members of the public that if they plan to bring their dogs along when dining out to celebrate the festival, they should first confirm whether the restaurant concerned is permitted to allow the entry of dogs, and comply with the relevant regulations. At present, over 990 restaurants hold permits allowing dogs to enter. Persons-in-charge of such restaurants should also ensure that their premises comply with the relevant licensing conditions and statutory requirements, and step up supervision and reminders for customers bringing dogs to safeguard diners' safety and public hygiene.

     An FEHD spokesman said that both restaurant operators and dog owners have the responsibility to comply with the relevant regulations. Non-permitted restaurants must abide by the law and must not allow customers to bring dogs into their premises; members of the public who bring dogs into non-permitted food premises also commit an offence.

     The spokesman added that since the measure of allowing dogs to enter permitted restaurants was implemented on July 9, the FEHD has been assisting all parties in complying with the relevant regulations through ongoing inspections, publicity and education. Following the conclusion of the initial one-month adaptation period, the department has adopted a pragmatic and flexible enforcement strategy, conducting inspections based on risk assessments, with a view to striking a proper balance between promoting pet inclusivity and safeguarding food safety and public hygiene. Regarding non-permitted restaurants which unlawfully allow dogs to enter, the FEHD has so far instituted a total of 20 prosecutions against the offending non-permitted restaurants, and a total of seven prosecutions against individuals unlawfully bringing dogs into non-permitted restaurants. Furthermore, the FEHD has also taken stern enforcement action against serious non-compliant behaviour by customers bringing dogs inside permitted restaurants, including instituting two prosecutions for failing to securely hold dogs on leashes during the adaptation period.

     The spokesman reiterated that permitted restaurants must strictly comply with the law and licensing conditions, which include prohibiting open-flame cooking on dining tables, denying entry of fighting dogs or known dangerous dogs to the restaurants, and denying dogs access to food rooms. The FEHD will take decisive enforcement action if violations are found.

     The FEHD once again appealed to restaurants and customers to abide by the law and regulations, earnestly fulfil their respective responsibilities, maintain a good dining environment and public hygiene, and jointly promote pet inclusivity. Members of the public can visit the FEHD dedicated webpage (www.fehd.gov.hk/english/licensing/dog_restaurants/dog_restaurants_list.html) to view relevant information and the detailed list of permitted restaurants.

Ends/Tuesday, September 22, 2026
Issued at HKT 16:00

NNNN