Chiang Mai is one of Thailand’s most scooter-friendly cities. The streets are manageable, fuel is cheap, and it is often the easiest way to get around. But parking a scooter here is not always straightforward, especially for newcomers. If you want to avoid fines or having your bike clamped, here are the key things you need to know.
Where You Cannot Park
You cannot park your motorbike just anywhere in Chiang Mai. Here are the places to avoid:
❌ Red and white painted kerbs: This means no parking at any time. These areas are enforced, and your bike may be clamped or towed within minutes.
❌ Sidewalks: While many people do park on sidewalks, it is not technically allowed. In busy areas or near police stations, you are more likely to get fined.
❌ In front of gates, driveways, or shops: Avoid blocking access to any property or business. It is considered rude and your bike may be moved, sometimes a considerable distance away!
Where You Can Park
There are many places where you can legally and safely park your scooter:
- Yellow and white painted kerbs (Short Time): These areas are usually quick short-term parking or loading zones. Some may have time limits, so check for signs nearby or ask.
- Designated motorbike parking zones: These are often near markets, temples, shopping centres, and public buildings. They may be free or charge a small fee (~20 baht for a motorbike). Many may prohibit overnight parking.
- Street-side spaces without markings: If there are no painted kerbs and other bikes are parked there, it is usually acceptable. Just make sure you are not blocking traffic or access.
Parking Etiquette in Chiang Mai and Thailand
- Park in neat rows and follow the direction others are using.
- Do not block other bikes. Leave enough room for people to move in and out. If you do block a bike in, leave your steering unlocked.
- Temples and cultural sites often have clear parking areas. Only park where permitted and leave before the gates are locked!
- At night, choose well-lit areas if possible, especially in quieter parts of the city.
Scooter parking in Chiang Mai becomes easier once you understand the basic rules. Stick to marked areas, park where others are, avoid red and white zones, and be considerate of others.
If Your Bike Is Clamped or Fined
If your scooter is clamped in Chiang Mai, do not try to remove the clamp yourself!
Look for a sticker or notice with a phone number, usually from the local municipal office or traffic police. Call the number and follow their instructions. You will likely need to pay a fine, which can be done at a nearby police station or through the officer who arrives. Once paid, they will unlock your bike.
Trying to remove the clamp yourself can lead to a bigger fine or legal trouble.
