Cambodia is introducing tougher penalties for people and businesses that use roads and roadside areas without official permission, following the adoption of the amended Law on Roads. The new legislation, made public on July 14, 2026, establishes stricter regulations to protect public infrastructure, improve road safety, and ensure roads remain clear for motorists and pedestrians. Under the law, offenders could face fines ranging from 50,000 riel to as much as 5 million riel, with repeat violators paying double the original penalty.
The law was approved by the National Assembly during an extraordinary session on June 22 before receiving Senate approval on June 26. It outlines clear responsibilities for anyone using public roads or road reserves while introducing stronger enforcement measures aimed at reducing illegal roadside activities, unsafe obstructions, and unauthorized commercial operations.
New Law Brings Tougher Penalties for Road Violations
The amended Law on Roads introduces a comprehensive framework to regulate the use of public roads and road reserves across Cambodia. Authorities say the updated legislation is designed to enhance traffic safety, protect public infrastructure, and improve the management of roads that serve millions of commuters every day.
Anyone found violating the new rules could receive fines ranging from 50,000 riel, or approximately $12.50, to 5 million riel, or about $1,250, depending on the seriousness of the offence. Those who commit the same violation twice within a 12 month period will face penalties that are double the original fine.
Road Reserves Covered Under the New Rules
The law clearly defines what is considered a road reserve. This includes traffic lanes, road shoulders, pedestrian footpaths, drainage systems, and embankments that are essential for maintaining safe transportation networks.
Officials believe protecting these areas will help reduce congestion, improve pedestrian safety, and prevent unauthorized construction or commercial activities that may interfere with traffic flow or damage public infrastructure.
Unauthorized Access Construction Requires Approval
Article 66 of the amended law requires individuals or businesses to obtain approval before carrying out any work within a road reserve to create access to homes, factories, commercial buildings, or other adjoining properties.
Anyone who proceeds without authorization from the relevant road management authority will face a fine of 50,000 riel. The measure is intended to ensure that road modifications meet safety standards and do not negatively affect surrounding infrastructure.
Unsafe Road Conditions Will Also Be Penalized
The legislation also targets activities that could create hazards for motorists and pedestrians. Under Article 67, anyone who makes roads slippery or sticky, leaves construction materials on public roads, places equipment that obstructs traffic, installs objects that reduce driver visibility, or creates barriers for pedestrians will also receive a fine of 50,000 riel.
These provisions are designed to reduce preventable accidents and encourage greater responsibility among contractors, businesses, and individuals who use or work near public roads.
Traffic Sign Damage Carries Higher Fines
The amended law also strengthens protection for traffic control equipment. Article 68 imposes a fine of 100,000 riel, or approximately $25, on anyone who relocates, dismantles, writes on, or damages traffic signs, traffic lights, safety barriers, kilometre markers, or directional signs.
Authorities view traffic signs as essential public assets that help maintain orderly traffic movement and improve road safety throughout the country.
Unauthorized Roadside Businesses Face the Largest Fine
One of the most significant additions appears in the newly introduced Article 69, which specifically targets unauthorized commercial activities within road reserves, including road maintenance and testing areas.
Anyone operating a business in these locations without the required licence will face a fine of 5 million riel, equivalent to approximately $1,250. The provision reflects the government’s effort to better regulate roadside commerce while ensuring that public roads remain safe and accessible for all users.
Conclusion
Cambodia’s amended Law on Roads introduces stricter rules to improve public safety, protect road infrastructure, and regulate the use of roadside spaces. By increasing penalties for unauthorized construction, hazardous activities, damaged traffic signs, and unlicensed roadside businesses, the government aims to create safer, more efficient roads while encouraging greater compliance with national regulations. The new law sends a clear message that public roads are shared assets that must be used responsibly.