"Songkran 2026" is when the government announced enhanced safety measures under the concept"Safe Songkran, Alcohol-Free."The Royal Thai Police are preparing to strictly enforce laws on eight main points to reduce accident and crime rates. Thairath Online has summarized the key issues you"must not miss."The penalties this time are harsher than before!
1. Drunk Driving: Harsher Penalties for Repeat Offenders
Drivers with blood alcohol levels over 50 mg% (or over 20 mg% for those under 20 years old) face up to 1 year in prison and fines from 5,000 to 20,000 baht. Special for 2026: repeat offenses within 2 years will increase prison time to up to 2 years and fines up to 100,000 baht.
2. Ban on High-Pressure Water Guns
Water-spraying devices made from high-pressure PVC pipes or modified guns that could cause eye or bodily injury are prohibited. Violators face up to 2 years imprisonment or fines up to 4,000 baht. If causing serious injury, penalties increase under the Criminal Code.
3. No Powder, No Paint, No Foam Parties (in controlled areas)
In Safe Zones or popular water play areas (such as Khao San Road, Silom), powder and paint use are banned to prevent harassment and to protect drivers' visibility. Foam parties are limited in some areas to avoid slips and electrical hazards.
4. Strict Control of Indecent or Obscene Dressing
Wearing revealing clothing or displaying sexually suggestive behavior in public water play areas is punishable as public indecency, with fines up to 5,000 baht.
5. Prohibition of Alcohol Sales to Minors and Outside Permitted Hours
Alcohol sales to persons under 20 are forbidden. Sales are allowed only between 11:00–14:00 and 17:00–24:00. Sales in national parks and government offices are strictly prohibited.
6. No Water Play on Vehicle Roofs
Carrying water in pickup truck beds is allowed, but passengers must not sit on the edges or stand on the roof of moving vehicles to prevent falls, a leading cause of deaths during the festival.
7. Speed Limits Must Be Observed
Speed cameras will operate 24/7 on main routes to regional areas, especially on the new free motorways (M6, M81). Violators face fines up to 4,000 baht and immediate license point deductions.
8. Event and Sound Amplification Permits
Small Songkran event organizers or entertainment venues must obtain permits for sound amplification and event use from district or municipal offices. Excessive noise beyond allowed times incurs fines under public order laws.
Respecting these 8 strict Songkran 2026 rules is not just about avoiding fines but demonstrates responsibility toward the community, ensuring this Thai New Year is a joyful festival without loss.
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