In an effort to maintain order and ensure compliance with regulations, the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing in Saudi Arabia has recently updated the list of fines for various municipal violations. These revisions aim to promote a better quality of life and support fair business practices in the country.

Here are some key highlights from the updated list of fines:

Public Property Trespassing: Individuals caught stealing energy from light poles or engaging in other forms of trespassing on public property may face fines ranging from 10,000 to 50,000 Saudi Riyals.

Price Gouging: Businesses found guilty of increasing product prices beyond levels set by the Minister of Commerce or relevant authorities will be subject to fines ranging between 5,000 and 100,000 riyals. The fine will also include the difference between the standard and selling prices.

Unauthorized Construction: Businesses initiating building work without the necessary licenses could incur fines ranging from 10,000 to 50,000 riyals, emphasizing the importance of adhering to proper regulations.

Consulting Office Obligations: Firms failing to establish an authorized consulting office for excavation work will face fines ranging from 6,000 to 30,000 riyals, reinforcing the need for responsible business practices.

The updated regulations also consider different categories of institutions, including municipalities, mayoralties, and the Small and Medium Enterprises General Authority (Monsha'at), when determining the fine amounts. These regulations promote fairness by considering the institution's size, with the percentage of the fine value varying for micro-enterprises, small, medium, and large establishments.

Moreover, the updated rules differentiate between grave violations that could endanger public health or individual safety and less serious violations. The fines are structured to reflect the type and frequency of violations, contributing to a safer and more harmonious environment.

The overarching goal of these updated regulations is to safeguard the rights of all citizens while enhancing the ability of small and medium-sized businesses to thrive in the market. By improving urban conditions and overall quality of life, Saudi Arabia continues its commitment to progress and prosperity.