Starting June 15, Hong Kong traffic authorities will send fixed penalty notices and demand notices for illegal parking and speeding violations electronically via SMS and email.

A dedicated eTraffic Ticket Platform website and mobile app will also be launched to facilitate payments and inquiries.

At a Thursday press briefing, Police Traffic Branch Headquarters announced a transitional “dual-issue” period where both electronic and paper notices will be sent. The duration of this grace period will depend on public adaptation progress toward the ultimate paperless system.

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Under the new system, vehicle owners who have provided electronic contact information to the Transport Department will receive electronic notices via text messages and emails, containing details such as the notice number, violation plate number, date, time, location, and electronic payment code.

Vehicle owners can verify and make payments through the government’s dedicated eTraffic Ticket Platform website and mobile application by entering the notice number and plate number. They can complete the payment using new electronic methods like Faster Payment System (FPS) and credit cards, while traditional methods such as ATMs and online banking are still available.

Officials from the Traffic Branch Headquarters also cautioned that the electronic tickets will be sent under the name “#HKPT-eTT” and will not include any links, advising residents to be cautious and verify the authenticity of these text messages and emails.

Superintendent (Traffic management) of the Traffic Branch Headquarters Nip Hoi-kwan said the new system will enhance law enforcement efficiency for the police and also provide residents with prompt notifications of violations, aiding in the swift removal of illegally parked vehicles.

Citing data, he said that currently about 65 percent of vehicle owners in Hong Kong, approximately 400,000 people, have submitted electronic contact information, with around 24 percent of driving license holders, roughly 640,000 people, also providing their details.

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Currently, illegal parking carries a fine of HK$320 (US$40.89), while speeding fines could reach up to HK$1000. In April, the government proposed raising illegal parking fines to HK$400 and increasing the maximum speeding fine to HK$1500, pending approval by Legislative Council members.

Contact the writer at amberwu@chinadailyhk.com