Fines for illegal parking and other traffic offences are set to be increased, according to a paper submitted to the Legislative Council on Thursday.

In it, transport officials indicate that parking fines – which have remained unchanged for more than three decades – should rise from HK$320 to HK$400.

To increase turnover of parking spaces, metered parking rates will double to HK$4 per 15 minutes, making the hourly charge HK$16.

Officials said the hike in parking fees alone is expected to bring in an extra HK$220 million in revenue for this financial year.

Other traffic violations such as speeding, crossing double white lines and using phones while driving will see fines increase by 50 percent from between HK$320 and HK$1,000 to between HK$480 and HK$1,500. Offences like driving in excess of the speed limit by 15 km/h or less or driving with an expired licence presently bring fines of HK$320.

Authorities also proposed a five-tier system for electric car licence fees based on a vehicle’s rated power, with annual fees ranging from HK$1,500 to HK$11,000.

The adjustments will happen gradually over three years and cost less than regular car licences to encourage people to buy electric vehicles.

The government hopes to table the amendments to Legco in the second quarter.

Lawmakers will discuss the proposals in a transport panel meeting next week.

Once approved, these changes will take effect within three to six months.