Bali Imposes Strict New Rules and Fines for Tourists in 2025 to Curb Unruly Behavior
In a decisive move to preserve the cultural integrity and natural beauty of the island, Bali’s provincial government has introduced a comprehensive set of travel regulations and penalties targeting unruly tourists. The new guidelines, officially outlined in Circular Letter (SE) Number 7 of 2025, underscore the island’s commitment to delivering respectful and sustainable tourism amid increasing visitor numbers.
Key Provisions of Bali’s New Tourist Regulations
Governor Wayan Koster, spearheading the initiative to manage the influx and impact of mass tourism, emphasized that the circular codifies obligations, prohibitions, and penalties for visitors in clear terms to reduce ambiguity and enforce accountability.
Among the newly introduced mandates, tourists will be obligated to pay a mandatory tourism levy of IDR 150,000 (approximately USD 9.03). This fee can be settled either before arrival or during the stay through the official Love Bali website, enhancing funding for local conservation and service initiatives.
Certified and licensed tour guides are now compulsory for visits to Bali’s heritage and natural sites. These guides, vetted by local authorities, ensure that tourists engage thoroughly and respectfully with Bali’s rich culture and sacred locations.
Visitors must exchange currency only at authorized money changers, such as banks or government-sanctioned institutions, and all local transactions are to be conducted using Bank Indonesia’s official QR code payment system to maintain financial security and integrity.
Traffic and Safety Regulations
Tourists driving in Bali will face stricter enforcement of road safety rules requiring possession of a valid Indonesian or international driver’s license. Motorbike riders must wear helmets, obey speed limits, and adhere to passenger capacity rules. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is prohibited. Additionally, rental vehicles must be properly registered to prevent illegal operations on the island’s roads.
Respecting Local Customs and the Environment
The government has instituted explicit restrictions to protect Bali’s cultural sites and natural areas. Tourists are banned from entering temple sanctuaries unless for religious purposes and in appropriate attire. Actions such as climbing sacred trees, taking inappropriate photos at religious sites, littering, and polluting natural environments are strictly forbidden. The regulations also impose restrictions on single-use plastics, including straws and plastic bags, to reinforce Bali’s environmental conservation efforts.
Public behavior is closely monitored with prohibitions on aggressive conduct, public swearing, disrespect towards local residents, unauthorized working or business activities, and engagement in illicit acts such as drug trafficking or the sale of protected cultural artifacts.
Enforcement and Reporting
To ensure compliance, Bali’s Civil Service Police Unit (Satpol PP) and law enforcement agencies will intensify monitoring of tourist behavior. The government encourages locals and fellow tourists to report violations through a dedicated WhatsApp hotline at +62 81-287-590-999. This community-involved approach aims to transform the new rules from recommendations into enforceable laws.
Looking Ahead
These strict measures reflect Bali’s determination to sustain tourism that honors its heritage, protects its environment, and offers both residents and visitors a safe and respectful experience. Tourists planning a trip in 2025 and beyond should familiarize themselves with these rules to avoid fines and preserve the island’s sanctity.
For more detailed information, visitors are advised to review official announcements from the Bali Provincial government and adhere strictly to the updated travel guidelines during their stay on the island.
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