Press Releases

The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) today (September 25) reminded people to observe fire safety and keep the countryside clean during the Mid-Autumn Festival.

"Visitors should not release any Hung Ming lanterns, and should be extremely careful with barbecue fires as well as candle-lit lanterns in the countryside," an AFCD spokesman said.

"It is an offence under the Forests and Countryside Ordinance to illegally light a fire or release a Hung Ming lantern in country parks and open countryside.

"Any person who contravenes the ordinance is liable to a maximum fine of $25,000 and one year's imprisonment."

The spokesman also reminded visitors to keep the countryside clean. Anyone who commits a littering offence in a country park area is liable to a fixed penalty of $1,500.