PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya has long been known for its vibrant nightlife, but for many residents, the late-night noise has become an increasing source of frustration. Complaints about loud music, karaoke sessions, and excessive noise from bars and entertainment venues have flooded social media, with locals calling for stricter enforcement of noise regulations.
On the night of February 24, Mayor Poramet Ngampichet ordered an inspection of a bar complex located in Soi Diana, South Pattaya, following multiple complaints from residents. The complaints, including one submitted via TikTok, reported that live music, bass, and drums from the venue were disrupting the peace of the neighborhood.
In response, the mayor deployed a team led by Chanyut Yangprida, along with sanitation and environmental health officials, Pattaya municipal officers, and Banglamung district security personnel. Upon arrival, they found that the bar complex ‘Las Vegas Beer Garden’, which consists of ten different bar zones, had a central stage for live music. Testing the sound levels confirmed that music was indeed escaping beyond the premises, affecting nearby residents.
As a result, authorities ordered structural modifications to the venue to contain the noise, ensuring that it does not disturb those living in the surrounding area. The bar’s manager, Ms. Thakonrat, acknowledged the complaints and assured that adjustments would be made within a month. She stated that while the bar has been operating for less than a year without prior complaints, the recent concerns would be taken seriously, and soundproofing measures would be implemented.
Widespread Complaints Across Pattaya
While the crackdown on the bar complex in Soi Buakhao is a step toward addressing noise pollution, many residents argue that the problem extends far beyond one location.
“What about Soi 13 on Pattaya Second Road? Foreigners with Thai wives blast karaoke music all night! They act entitled, and it’s unbearable.”
“Don’t forget the restaurants and bars that take over the sidewalks with tables and chairs. We’re watching to see if this will be enforced.”
“It’s not just the music – sometimes it’s people screaming and yelling. Ladyboys, tourists, and drunk revelers make it impossible to sleep.”
“Shut the entire street down! It’s full of low-quality tourists anyway.”
“Last night near my place, karaoke was going until 4 AM! I couldn’t sleep at all.”
Enforcing Regulations
While some residents are hopeful about the city’s efforts, others remain skeptical, pointing out that this is not the first time authorities have promised action against excessive noise. The issue is not limited to bars; late-night street parties and karaoke sessions are common in many neighborhoods, causing unrest among locals.
City officials have emphasized that entertainment businesses must adhere to noise regulations and operate within legal boundaries. However, many argue that enforcement remains inconsistent, with some venues continuing to blast loud music despite multiple complaints.
As Pattaya continues to balance its reputation as a world-famous nightlife destination with the quality of life for its residents, the question remains: Will noise control efforts be consistently enforced, or will they fade away like previous crackdowns?
