Israeli Court Upholds Ruling Against Couple Operating Business From Private Driveway

The Local Court in Maale Adumim rejected a request from a couple in the settlement of Har Adar to annul a plea deal and court ruling against them for running a small business without a permit from their private driveway. In July 2025, the couple signed the plea agreement unrepresented, which the court approved as a binding judgment. The deal required them to rectify the building violation within a year, with no fines imposed, and the local council would carry out any demolition if needed.

In late June 2026, just before the deadline, the couple sought to cancel the ruling and withdraw their admission, claiming they signed under improper pressure without understanding the consequences. They also alleged selective enforcement, arguing that many residents operate businesses from their homes’ yards or driveways due to the lack of commercial zones in Har Adar. They submitted a list of such businesses, claiming the council did not pursue enforcement against them.

The prosecution, represented by attorney Ze'ev Moshe Ben Dori and the IDF regional commander, countered that the defendants fully understood the plea terms and filed their motion late to continue illegal business activity. They denied selective enforcement, stating other businesses do not operate from driveways or cause public nuisance, unlike the defendants’ case. The prosecution noted that enforcement policy prioritizes businesses operating from driveways.

Judge Amir Dahan ruled on Friday that there was no evidence of selective enforcement and affirmed the plea deal and judgment. He cited his own court visits to Har Adar, observing significant parking shortages justifying enforcement against illegal driveway businesses. The judge concluded the plea was entered knowingly and served the defendants’ interests, who now wish to retract it after its term ended.

The couple’s lawyer said they are reviewing the decision and considering an appeal.