Some successful dog permit eatery applicants forced to withdraw

The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department recently selected 1,000 restaurants by ballot to join a pilot scheme allowing dogs to enter their premises, starting July 9th.

However, some successful applicants have been forced to withdraw because of restrictions from property deeds. Among them is this restaurant in Kai Tak which has been denied formal permits after being selected in the first phase.

This as the road outside the eatery falls within an area governed by Housing Department deed restrictions, which prohibit dogs from being walked there. That's despite several nearby private housing estates having adopted pet-friendly policies.

The operator hopes authorities can exercise flexibility.

Lawmaker Rebecca Chan has suggested the government review pet-related regulations in the next phase of the scheme, including relaxing pet restrictions in property deeds.