Concerns over nightlife venue regulation and licensing in Bangkok were highlighted by MPs on April 22. Bhuntin Noumjerm, along with other MPs, addressed widespread non-compliance with current laws, focusing on areas like Khao San Road. They called for amendments to the Entertainment Place Act to address these issues.
Get today's headlines by email 
The proposed amendments had been submitted but were not considered due to Parliament's dissolution. Bhuntin emphasized the pressing need for the government to revisit the bill as licensing problems impact venues nationwide. He cited that 80%-90% of venues are unlicensed, leading to potential unofficial payments and confusion over required permits.
Outdated legal definitions present challenges, as modern business models like cafes selling alcohol aren't covered. Zoning issues, especially in Bangkok, contribute to confusion over where venues can operate. Bhuntin proposed empowering local authorities to set zoning rules and announced a public hearing in May before resubmitting the bill to Parliament.
Paramait Vithayaruksun highlighted areas such as Khao San Road, where nightlife growth boosts revenue but also causes resident discomfort due to noise. Similar issues are present in other tourist hubs like Pattaya and Phuket, where venues operate unlicensed and are subject to unofficial payments.
Chorayuth Chaturapornprasit called for legal reform to ensure transparency and fair business operations. He noted that only six of over 100 venues on Khao San Road are licensed, with unlicensed ones often operating until early morning. This issue was underscored by a recent police raid in Thonglor, where an unlicensed nightclub was found operating illegally.
Join the discussion? 
Already a member? 
Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Thaiger · 22 Apr 2026
Recommended Comments
Create an account or sign in to comment