Ko Samui Municipality is clearing cluttered streets and sidewalks from Bo Phut to First Bungalow Alley, aiming to restore public spaces for safety and beauty. Shops and rental operators are warned to keep areas clear to avoid fines up to 10,000 Baht.
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Ko Samui Municipality has recently intensified its efforts to maintain the safety, cleanliness, and orderly nature of its urban environment by launching a new campaign to reorganize shops and vehicle rental operators. Operating under the theme “Returning the sidewalks to the people, returning the roads to vehicles,” this initiative aims to enhance convenience for both residents and tourists.
Fieldwork and Implementation
On December 11, 2025, the Public Order and Security Division, part of the Office of the Municipal Clerk, carried out a comprehensive operation covering the stretch from Bo Phut three-way intersection to First Bungalow Alley. The left side of this area was the focal point for organizational tasks, targeting specific behaviors that obstruct public spaces and compromise urban order.
Actions Taken Against Vehicle Rental Operators
Municipal officials issued official warnings to vehicle rental operators regarding the improper practice of parking cars and motorcycles on roads and public areas. This practice was flagged as a direct violation of the Public Cleanliness and Order Act B.E. 2535 (1992), specifically under Section 19, which prohibits the placement or deposition of objects – including vehicles – on public roads or spaces.
Legal Penalties for Non-Compliance
- Section 19 Violation: Placing vehicles or objects on public roads or areas.
- Penalty: Fine not exceeding 10,000 Baht.
Actions Against Shops Blocking Sidewalks
Fifteen shops received official warnings for setting objects that blocked sidewalks and public places. This infringes upon Section 39 of the same Act, which strictly forbids the installation or placement of any items in public spaces without explicit permission from local authorities.
Legal Penalties for Non-Compliance
- Section 39 Violation: Installing, hanging, or placing items in public areas without authorization.
- Penalty: Fine not exceeding 10,000 Baht, imprisonment for up to one month, or both.
Law Enforcement and Community Cooperation
Ko Samui officials are actively seeking cooperation from all operators to adhere to municipal regulations. The ultimate goal is to ensure public walkways remain safe, accessible, and clutter-free for everyone. Municipal authorities have underscored the importance of following these guidelines to improve the overall safety and experience for both residents and tourists.
Public Messaging and Urban Vision
The campaign is part of Ko Samui Municipality’s broader vision to create a smart, sustainable, and livable island for all. Branding messages such as “Smartly developed, sustainably grown, a livable Samui for everyone” underscore a commitment to balanced urban growth that prioritizes both community interests and tourism development.
Role of Local Authorities
The Public Order and Security Division, in coordination with the Office of the Municipal Clerk, continues to play a central role in monitoring, organizing, and enforcing these urban policies. The recent efforts also align with ongoing initiatives to enhance public safety, promote environmental stewardship, and uphold the vibrant aesthetic of Ko Samui as a top-tier tourist destination.
Supporting Safety and Urban Aesthetics
By reclaiming sidewalks for pedestrian use and keeping public roads clear for vehicles, the municipality aims to provide a safer and more welcoming environment. These measures support not only legal compliance but also contribute to the island’s image as both a beautiful and efficiently managed destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the goal of Ko Samui Municipality’s recent street and sidewalk clean-up initiative?
The main goal is to restore public spaces for safety and beauty by removing clutter from streets and sidewalks and ensuring they remain accessible and hazard-free for both residents and tourists. This aligns with the broader vision for a smart, sustainable, and livable Samui.
What regulations must shops and vehicle rental operators follow, and what are the penalties for non-compliance?
Shops must not place objects that block sidewalks or public places without explicit permission. Vehicle rental operators are prohibited from parking cars or motorbikes on roads or public areas. Violators can be fined up to 10,000 Baht under Sections 19 and 39 of the Public Cleanliness and Order Act B.E. 2535. Violating Section 39 can also result in up to one month in jail, or both fine and imprisonment.
How does this campaign benefit both residents and tourists on Ko Samui?
By keeping sidewalks clear and roads unobstructed, the initiative improves convenience, safety, and accessibility. This creates a more pleasant and efficient environment for everyone and enhances Samui’s reputation as a welcoming, top-tier tourist destination.
