The confirmation follows The Phuket News querying the mayor about a sign in Chinese language only located at the end of Soi Palai in Chalong.
Mayor Thanaporn explained that a regulation change announcemed on Jan 1, 2021, set annual new tax rates based on the language composition of signs.
Previously restricted by rules requiring Thai as the dominant language on signs, businesses can now advertise in foreign languages under three types of signage, she said.
The change followed a new regulation issued by the Minister of Interior under Section 5 of the Bill of Rights Act B.E. 2510, as amended in 1991.
The change was to reflect Thailand’s growing international outlook, Mayor Thanaporn said.
Signs are now categorised into three types and the annual rates payable to local municipalities per 500 square centimetres are:
- Type 1 (Thai only): B10, only B5 for signs that are text only
- Type 2 (Thai mixed with foreign text/pictures): B52 and text only at B26
- Type 3 (No Thai characters or Thai text positioned lower than foreign text): B52
If the total tax calculation results in less than B200 per sign, a minimum tax of B200 per sign applies, Mayor Thanaporn said.
“The rule has been relaxed, but businesses that fail to comply with sign regulations, including those that install signs without notifying the local government when required, may face fines or orders for removal,” she added.
However, Mayor Thanaporn insisted that the sign in Soi Palai had never been seen by officers at Chalong Municipality, and that the owner will be contacted and taxed according to the law.
“The sign rule has changed to better match the needs of businesses, making it easier to cater to international visitors,” Mayor Thanaporn concluded.