Illegal hotels must register by Aug 19

Phetchabun: Operators of unregistered hotels and other accommodation have been urged to register their operations and ensure their adherence to various laws, following a recent order by the regime.

It was aimed at bringing illegal hotels and accommodation service providers -- whose numbers exceed 20,000 -- under control and boosting safety for tourists.

Provincial governor Suebsak Iamwicharn said there are about 30 operators who run illegal accommodation services and violate laws and regulations related to city planning and building control, so the recent issuance of the Section 44 order will give them "a chance to set things right".

Mr Suebsak said he has asked district office chiefs to tell the operators to comply with the NCPO's order by Aug 19.

"Those who are eligible to make their businesses legal should expedite their efforts," he said.

"If they don't do it now, there's nothing else we can do and they shouldn't complain later if a dispute comes up in the future."

Under the National Council for Peace and Order's (NCPO) Order No.6/2562 issued on June 12, people who lease their buildings, houses or apartments in the same manner as hotels without permission and/or proper management are violating laws related to land use, city planning and building controls.

Operators who are aware their businesses breach the law must notify local officials, legally register their businesses, and make sure that their accommodation meets building regulations, especially those relating to fire safety, according to the NCPO's order.

As for hotels and/or accommodations located on public land or forest reserve areas, he said the NCPO's order requires authorities concerned to gather information and submit it to the National Land Policy Commission for further consideration.