In more detail
The Notification of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment Prescribing Projects, Activities, or Operations Requiring the Preparation of an Environmental Impact Assessment Report, and the Criteria, Procedures, and Conditions for Preparing an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (No. 2), B.E. 2568 (2025), was published in the Royal Gazette on 31 July 2025.
This Notification became effective on 1 August 2025. It revises the list of projects, activities, and operations that require an EIA. The key changes include new categories of commercial buildings that must undergo the EIA process if their area is 10,000 square meters or more, or if the height is 23 meters or higher:
- Buildings used for the retail or wholesale of consumer goods for daily use or clothing, excluding markets governed by public health laws.
- Buildings used for the sale of construction materials or equipment, electrical appliances, or furniture.
- Department stores or shopping centers.
- Mixed-use buildings that include office space and any of the types described in items (1), (2), or (3).
If a proposed commercial development falls under these categories, the developer must have an EIA prepared by a licensed environmental specialist and obtain official approval prior to applying for other permits and licenses, including a building construction permit.
If you have any questions or need any legal assistance in this respect, please contact our Real Estate Team.
