New Bangkok Pet Rules to Take Effect in 2026 — What Owners Need to Know
BANGKOK, May 2, 2025 — Bangkok residents will not be forced to give up their pets under new animal control rules set to take effect on January 10, 2026, according to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA). Officials reassured the public that the new ordinance will not apply retroactively to existing pet owners.
The BMA Ordinance on Animal Control (2024), published in the Royal Gazette earlier this year, imposes limits on the number and types of animals allowed per household based on property size, aiming to improve animal welfare and manage public health risks. However, Deputy Governor Tavida Kamolvej clarified during a press briefing at City Hall that pets currently owned before the law takes effect will be exempt.
“There’s no need to abandon your pets,” Tavida stated. “You can continue caring for them until they pass away naturally.”
The ordinance outlines new responsibilities for pet owners and sets clear limitations:
Animal Limits by Property Size
- Large mammals (cows, horses, deer): 1 per 200 sqm
- Small mammals (goats, pigs, ponies): 3 per 200 sqm
- Poultry: 1 per 4 sqm
- Large birds (e.g., ostriches): 1 per 50 sqm
- Small birds: 5 per 1 sqm
Higher limits will apply to registered animal businesses, which must meet stricter health and environmental standards.
Exceptions for Public Spaces
Keeping or releasing animals in public areas will generally be banned, except in cases such as:
- Disease treatment or immunization
- Temporary permissions for designated events or relocation
- Government and charitable purposes
Pet Owner Duties
Owners must:
- Provide proper shelter, food, water, and space
- Maintain hygiene and manage waste
- Vaccinate animals and isolate those showing signs of illness
- Prevent harm to others and avoid public disturbances
- Properly dispose of deceased animals
The ordinance supports the BMA’s broader animal welfare policies, including permanent pet registration (P137) and stray animal population control (P138) to reduce rabies risk and promote adoption.
The BMA is now working with animal welfare groups and health officials to raise public awareness before the 2026 enforcement deadline.
