1st phase of 1000 licenses allocated for pet friendly restaurants

Dogs will be allowed in restaurants, starting July 9th. A ballot was held today to allocate the 1,000 restaurant licence quotas in the first phase.

The ballot took place Friday morning at the Lai Chi Kok Government Offices. Legislative Council Panel on Food Safety and Environmental Hygiene Chairperson Rebecca Chan conducted the computerised draw in five groups.

For the first phase, after excluding duplicate and ineligible applications, a total of 1,616 license applications have been received. A successful restaurant operator said they expect the dog permit will benefit their business.

This manager says they have prepared disposable dog food containers, water, snacks and leashes. Separate seating will be arranged for customers who are uncomfortable with dogs when they make reservations. They believe the policy will help buoy business.

Restaurants, being placed on the waiting list, meanwhile, hope authorities could expand the number of licenses.

This manager says they are often asked by dog owners if pets can be allowed indoors instead of having to stay outdoors, especially during summer.

Around eight to nine such requests are made every day, so securing a license would make relevant arrangements easier.

Lawmaker Rebecca Chan adds the quota is not fixed and may be increased gradually depending on circumstances. Successful applicants will receive SMS notifications and a letter next Tuesday detailing license conditions. They must complete application procedures at the licensing office by June 24th with a fee of 140 dollars. If payment is not completed by the deadline, the quota will be allocated to eateries on the waiting list.