Regulation Guide · 2026. 07

Enforcement Penalties —
How Much, and Until When

Q: Do I only pay the enforcement penalty once?

No. The enforcement penalty isn't a fine but a tool to compel correction, so it can be imposed repeatedly — up to twice a year — until the violation is corrected. Paying doesn't end it; if the violation remains, the next billing continues.

Q: How is the enforcement penalty calculated?

For unauthorized/unreported construction, the basic structure is the assessed value multiplied by the violation area, within a rate cap of 50%, with the rate varying by violation type (unauthorized construction, coverage-ratio excess, use violation, etc.). Reduction provisions exist for small residential violations, so the actual amount depends on the local government's assessment.

Q: How do I stop the enforcement penalty?

Only by resolving the violation. Three paths exist: voluntary demolition (restoration), retroactive legalization through a permit/report if requirements are now met, or legalization under a special act when one is enacted. Which is more favorable depends on the violation and the building's condition, so architect review is advisable.

LEA Architects · Junsu Kim, Architect

Not a Fine — a Bill That Never Really Ends

The first misunderstanding for anyone who receives an unauthorized-building notice is "I'll just pay the fine once and it's over." The enforcement penalty isn't a punishment but a tool to compel correction, and it can recur up to twice a year until the violation is resolved. Leave it for 10 years, and a decade's worth accumulates — which is why "waiting it out" is the worst strategy.

Enforcement penalty structure overview (rates/reductions per statute and local ordinance)

First, Identify Your Violation Type

Not all unauthorized buildings are alike — unauthorized new construction, unauthorized extension, lot-coverage excess, and unauthorized use change carry different rates and remedies. For instance, an unauthorized veranda extension is a small-scale extension type with room for reduction, while unauthorized commercial use change draws a heavier penalty. Response starts with accurately reading the building ledger and the violation notice. (How to read the building ledger)

Exit Strategy — Demolition Isn't the Only Answer

Consultations often start from "demolition is the only option," but there are actually three branches. If current code is met, retroactive legalization is possible, and you may qualify for the Special Act legalization being pursued for 2026. Our Sangha-dong project used a local incentive (Growth Management relief) to trade demolition for a lawful extension. The optimal path depends on the combination of violation, building condition, and local schemes — starting the review before the next billing cycle is what actually saves money.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Do I only pay the enforcement penalty once?

No. It can recur up to twice a year until the violation is corrected. Payment alone doesn't stop it if the violation remains.

Q. How is the enforcement penalty calculated?

Assessed value × violation area, with the rate for unauthorized construction capped at 50%; rates vary by violation type. Small residential violations have reduction provisions.

Q. How do I stop the enforcement penalty?

Restoration, retroactive legalization via permit/report, or special-act legalization are the three paths. Which is favorable depends on the specifics.

Enforcement Penalty Calculation · Unauthorized Building Penalty · Enforcement Penalty Reduction · Illegal Extension · LEA Architects

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