Jakarta. Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung on Thursday reiterated his warning that padel courts built without proper permits — or in violation of building-use approvals — will be demolished.

Pramono said existing regulations are non-negotiable and must be enforced to ensure legal certainty for businesses operating in the capital.

“I have instructed the public order agency, mayors, district heads, and related officials to take firm action against anyone building padel courts without permits,” he said.

He stressed that compliance with licensing rules is fundamental to maintaining orderly urban development. Any building or sports facility that lacks proper approval cannot legally operate in Jakarta, he added.

Construction and building-use permits are mandatory before development begins, covering safety standards, spatial planning requirements, and land-use conformity.

The governor’s renewed warning comes amid a surge in privately operated sports facilities, particularly padel courts. In recent months, the sport has grown rapidly in popularity across Jakarta, with new indoor and outdoor courts opening in residential areas and commercial spaces, including shopping centers.

Previously, Pramono also required padel operators in residential neighborhoods to install soundproofing and limit operating hours to 8 p.m. to minimize disturbances to nearby residents.

He said Jakarta’s green open spaces must not be converted into padel courts or other commercial facilities, warning that such changes would deprive the public of shared environmental assets.

According to city planning documents, Jakarta continues to struggle to meet its ideal green open space targets. Converting green areas for commercial use could weaken environmental resilience, increase flood risks, and worsen air quality in the densely populated capital.