Ask a lawyer are no longer accepting questions, so I ask here.

If Farlangs are running a social club or group in Thailand, just general meet ups at set venues and dates each month, no money or subscriptions involved, do they need a work permit?

As with many things in Thailand, and given the rare occasion of consistency. I would say the best advice would be to ask that question directly to the Police Station and Labour Office for your specific area.

Ultimately what will matter is the Officer and /or Official stood in front of you at the time. If you get local and direct advice at least you have something as a point of reference.

My 5 pennies worth. No.

Why would anyone need a work permit to have a get together ? I think people get a little bit to scared about what might happen when nothing is going to happen.

Just don't play cards!

Sending emails to a group of friends about a venue for a beer or two, work permit?

I doubt even the Thai authorities would see that as "work".

Pleasure. No.