Entertainment Venue & Pub Noise Complaint Guide Thailand
How to complain about noisy pubs, karaoke bars, and entertainment venues in Thailand.
Noise from entertainment venues — including pubs, bars, karaoke establishments, nightclubs, live music venues, and event spaces — is one of the most common and disruptive noise complaints in Thai urban areas. These businesses often operate late into the night and may generate bass-heavy music that travels through walls and floors.
Entertainment venues in Thailand are regulated under the Service Establishment Act B.E. 2509 and subsequent amendments. Venues must hold a valid service establishment licence and are subject to conditions including operating hours and noise limits. In Bangkok, venues must close by 02:00 under current BMA regulations, with some areas subject to earlier closing times.
The Pollution Control Department's community noise standard sets a limit of 70 dB(A) during the day and 50 dB(A) at night in residential zones. Entertainment venues that breach these limits can be fined, have their licences suspended, or be required to install acoustic soundproofing measures.
How to Complain About a Noisy Entertainment Venue
- 1. Document the noise: Record audio and video evidence with timestamps. Measure the noise level inside your home — this is most relevant for assessing impact.
- 2. Check the venue's licence: You can verify whether a venue holds a valid service establishment licence at the local district office.
- 3. Report to local police: Noise from entertainment venues after 22:00 can be reported directly to the local police station. Police can visit and order immediate cessation of noise.
- 4. File with the district office: Submit a formal complaint to your สำนักงานเขต or municipality, requesting an inspection and action under the Public Health Act and Service Establishment Act.
- 5. Contact the Pollution Control Department: Call 1650 if the venue's noise exceeds national standards. PCD can conduct measurements and recommend licence conditions.
Soundproofing Requirements for Venues
Authorities can require entertainment venues to install acoustic soundproofing as a condition of their operating licence. This includes sealed doors, double-glazed windows, acoustic wall treatments, and low-frequency bass traps. If a venue near you does not have adequate soundproofing, this can be cited in your complaint.
Repeat offenders risk having their service establishment licence revoked. If a venue has received multiple complaints and fines but continues to violate noise regulations, document this history and escalate your complaint to the Provincial Governor's office or the Ministry of Interior.