After several years of preparation, the St Helena Government (SHG) is ready to take the next step in modernising the island’s legal system. The implementation of Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) will take effect from 1 November 2026.
An FPN is a formal notice that allows an individual to pay a set financial penalty for a specified offence, avoiding prosecution through the courts.
Implementation of this law forms part of SHG’s ongoing work to modernise the island’s legal system, making it more efficient while ensuring that offences continue to be dealt with fairly and proportionately. FPNs are intended to address low-level offences through a streamlined process, while offering a practical alternative for individuals who commit minor infringements.
Background
SHG enacted legislation in 2020 and in June 2025 enacted regulation to implement FPNs.
Since enactment the public service has been working on developing the administrative infrastructure and capacity to implement.
What happens if you receive a notice
Individuals who receive an FPN will have the opportunity to discharge liability for the offence by paying the prescribed penalty. Payment of an FPN is not an admission of guilt and does not result in a criminal record. In some circumstances, a reduced penalty amount may apply if payment is made within a specified period.
There are several offences prescribed in legislation including guidance on what penalty amount offences may attract an FPN, how notices may be issued, how payments can be made, and the options available to anyone who wishes to challenge a notice.
Public information campaign
Over the coming weeks, SHG will undertake a public information campaign through local newspapers, radio programmes, social media channels and the SHG website to ensure the community is fully aware of the new arrangements, understands why they are being introduced, how they will be implemented and knows what responsibilities and options are available.
SHG recognises that some of the offences covered by the scheme relate to matters that directly affect daily life on the island, including road traffic and environmental enforcement matters. The communications campaign will therefore include targeted engagement with community groups, and the general public to answer questions and provide clear information.
SHG encourages members of the public to engage with the campaign and take the opportunity to familiarise themselves with the new arrangements before they are applied on 1 November 2026.
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