Bali Enforces New Tourist Regulations to Preserve Tradition and Safety

New Guidelines for Visitors to the Island

In a significant move aimed at preserving its rich cultural heritage and ensuring the safety and respect of its natural environment, the Bali Provincial Government has announced a comprehensive set of tourist regulations under Circular Letter (SE) Number 7 of 2025. The new guidelines lay out clear expectations for visitors, emphasizing that while Bali welcomes tourists, it expects them to adhere to local customs, laws, and environmental ethics.

A Call for Respectful Behaviour

Governor Wayan Koster, who emphasizes the need to manage mass tourism effectively, stated that the latest regulations will explicitly outline the obligations of visitors, prohibitions, and accompanying penalties for violations. "Bali’s new tourist rules are a serious effort by the government to ensure safe, respectful, and enjoyable tourism," Koster remarked, reinforcing the importance of mutual respect between visitors and the local community.

Among the primary directives, visitors are urged to dress modestly and behave respectfully, particularly when visiting sacred sites. Entering temple areas is now permitted exclusively for religious purposes and requires appropriate attire to honor local customs.

Mandatory Tourist Levy and Requirements

To further support the preservation of Bali’s heritage, a tourist levy has been instituted, amounting to IDR 150,000 (approximately INR 775.17). This fee can be paid prior to or during a visitor’s stay using the Love Bali website. Additionally, tourists are now required to hire licensed tour guides for visits to heritage and natural sites. These guides, certified by local authorities, are well-versed in Balinese culture, ensuring tourists engage in meaningful and respectful interactions.

The updated regulations also dictate that all currency exchanges should be conducted at licensed money changers and that transactions use Bank Indonesia’s official QR code system. This measure aims to protect tourists from fraud and ensure fair exchange rates.

Traffic Rules and Safety Measures

Bali’s new regulations extend to road safety and traffic compliance, mandating that tourists possess a valid international or Indonesian driver’s license if they wish to drive. Key traffic rules must be adhered to, including obeying speed limits, passenger capacity guidelines, and using approved rental vehicles. Tourists are also prohibited from driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs and must wear helmets when riding motorbikes—the most popular mode of transport on the island.

Addressing Disruptive Behaviours

The regulations further introduce strict measures against disruptive behaviors that have been a growing concern among residents. These include restrictions on entering sacred temples without permission, climbing sacred trees, and taking inappropriate photographs. Tourists will be held accountable for littering in natural spaces, such as beaches and forests, and will face consequences for other misbehaviors, including public swearing or disrespect toward the local populace.

Moreover, the sale of protected cultural artifacts and engaging in illegal activities, such as drug trafficking, has been explicitly prohibited. The regulations also call for a restriction on single-use plastics, highlighting Bali’s ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability.

Monitoring and Enforcement

To ensure compliance with these new regulations, Bali’s Civil Service Police Unit (Satpol PP) and local law enforcement agencies will actively monitor tourist activities. The government has provided a WhatsApp hotline, (+62 81-287-590-999), for both locals and tourists to report any misconduct, reinforcing that these regulations are more than mere suggestions; they are enforceable laws designed to protect the island’s cultural integrity and natural beauty.

As Bali continues to navigate the dual impacts of tourism and environmental protection, these updated rules mark a decisive step toward fostering a more sustainable and respectful relationship between visitors and the island’s rich cultural landscape.

For travelers planning a trip to Bali, being aware of and adhering to these new guidelines will be crucial for an enjoyable and enriching experience.

Image Credit: bckfwd/Unsplash

For future reference, the information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.

Written By Sneha Chakraborty, a journalist and photographer focusing on the intersection of travel with food, culture, and environmental issues.