Hua Hin City Municipality has issued a warning against the obstruction of public footpaths, reminding the public that such actions violate Thailand’s cleanliness and orderliness laws and may result in fines or criminal prosecution.
The notice, published on the municipality’s official Facebook page on 19 June, highlights increasing instances of objects being placed on footpaths and unauthorised construction encroaching into pedestrian areas within the city. Authorities say these actions are making it more difficult for pedestrians and tourists to move around safely and are contributing to a lack of order in public spaces.
Under the Public Cleanliness and Orderliness Act B.E. 2535 (1992), as amended in 2017, several activities are prohibited:
- Section 17 forbids parking vehicles, including motorcycles, on footpaths. Offenders face a fine of up to 5,000 baht.
- Section 19 prohibits placing or piling any items—such as flower pots or construction materials—on roads or footpaths. This can lead to fines of up to 10,000 baht.
- Section 20 bans the selling of goods on roads or footpaths, with penalties of up to 2,000 baht.
- Section 39 restricts placing, hanging, or displaying anything in public spaces, also carrying a fine of up to 2,000 baht.
The municipality is taking steps to reclaim pedestrian walkways, aiming to ensure that footpaths are kept clear and accessible for public use. Officials say that obstructions not only inconvenience residents and visitors but also pose safety risks and detract from the city’s appearance.
In cases where public land is encroached upon by permanent structures, street vendors, or stalls, more serious penalties may apply. Offenders could face up to six months in prison, a fine of up to 100,000 baht, or both. Daily fines of up to 30,000 baht may also be issued until the obstruction is removed.
Municipal officials are urging all individuals and businesses to comply with the law and to keep public walkways clear to maintain a safe and orderly environment in Hua Hin.