I keep hearing the word of mouth that if a Thai citizen occupies an empty and otherwise not used piece of land, that person can claim it as his own after some number of years.

Is this true or false?

I have taken care of and minimum-occupied an un-sold lot in a mooban, owned by the original developer or his bank. Can I claim that lot? What occupation proof is needed? Legal actions? Thanks

I also hear that Thai government can claim empty unused land after a number of years, true?

Are you thai ? If not you can't own land.

It's been said a million times on TV.

Adverse Possession is recognised under Thai law. Section 1382 of the Thai CCC applies.

Not sure if ' taking care' of the plot would qualify but more info here ...

http://www.tilleke.com/resources/land-ownership-through-adverse-possession

It is quite common in my area, but only Thais who had built their houses on government land, i.e. around the village, because the family clan is growing. Every few years (5-6/7 years) the local land office representatives look around and check the situation and may grant some families proper paperwork if they claim the land officially. Not possible as a farang or for a farang's Thai wife. Not possible for farm land.

Fatfather

Yep its all yours. Now build a big house and put a big fence around it.

Ah, the something for nothing generation.

But the keys were in it officer

And now you owe all the back taxes.