Repeals fine for breaking fast ice
In November 2025, a captain was fined for breaking fast ice with a ship in Tempelfjorden. The fine has now been lifted due to unclear regulations.
In the spring of 2025, witnesses and the Governor's field inspectors observed a ship breaking ice in Tempelfjorden, which was prohibited by law on 1 January 2025. The incident was reported and investigated. The captain of the ship was fined NOK 40,000 for the violation. The fine was accepted.
After a closer review of the regulations for traffic in Svalbard, the Governor found that the legal basis for imposing penalties for breaking ice with ships is not sufficiently clear. At the request of the Governor, the Nord State Attorney's Office has lifted the fine in favour of the captain. The captain will be refunded the amount paid.
The Governor has notified the central authorities of the need for changes to the regulations.