How Or Bor Tor Fits in Thailand’s Government Structure
Thailand’s administrative system has two main layers: the central government administration (through the Ministry of Interior and provincial/district offices) and local self-government (through municipalities and Subdistrict Administrative Organizations). The Or Bor Tor belongs to the second category—it is locally elected and manages local affairs under the supervision of the provincial governor.
Does Every Area Have an Or Bor Tor?
Nearly every Tambon (subdistrict) in rural Thailand has an Or Bor Tor office. In more developed or urbanized areas, however, the Or Bor Tor may be upgraded to a Tesaban (municipality)—such as a Town Municipality (Tesaban Tambon) or City Municipality (Tesaban Nakhon).
Therefore, small rural communities are typically governed by an Or Bor Tor, while urban centers fall under municipal authorities instead.
Main Responsibilities of Or Bor Tor
- Local infrastructure: Roads, drainage, lighting, small bridges, and public utilities at Tambon level.
- City and land-use planning: Basic community zoning and local development plans in coordination with provincial authorities.
- Building permits and control: Issuing and enforcing construction permits under the Building Control Act B.E. 2522.
- Public health and sanitation: Waste collection, water supply, and local environmental management.
- Education and community development: Support for preschools, local cultural activities, and welfare programs.
- Local taxes and fees: Collection of property tax, billboard tax, and business license fees.
Building Permits and City Planning
One of the most practical roles of the Or Bor Tor is in construction control. Under Thai law, no building, modification, or demolition can occur without a permit from the local administrative authority, in rural subdistricts, this is the Or Bor Tor office.
Typical building permit services include:
- Application and approval for new building construction.
- Building modification or renovation approvals.
- Land-use and zoning consultation at Tambon level.
- Inspection for compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
Comparison with Amphur and Land Office
| Office | Thai Name | Role | Main Responsibilities | Governance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Or Bor Tor (SAO) | องค์การบริหารส่วนตำบล | Local self-government at subdistrict (Tambon) level | Local infrastructure, city planning, building permits, waste management, local taxes | Locally elected council and chief executive |
| Amphur / Amphoe | สำนักงานอำเภอ | District office representing central government | Civil registration, household registration, IDs, births, deaths, marriages | Appointed District Chief Officer (Nai Amphoe) |
| Land Office | สำนักงานที่ดิน | Provincial or branch office under Department of Lands | Land title deeds, property transfers, land maps, mortgages | Civil servants under Department of Lands |
Local Elections and Governance
Each Or Bor Tor is governed by an elected Or Bor Tor Council and a Chief Executive (Palad Or Bor Tor or Nayok Or Bor Tor). Elections typically take place every four years. The council decides local policies, budgets, and development plans for the subdistrict.
FAQ
Can foreigners apply for a building permit at the Or Bor Tor?
Yes, foreigners who legally own or lease land can apply, though documentation and approval depend on property ownership laws and the area’s zoning regulations.
Who supervises the Or Bor Tor?
Although locally elected, the Or Bor Tor operates under supervision from the provincial governor and the Ministry of Interior to ensure compliance with national regulations.
What if a Tambon is upgraded to a municipality?
If an area becomes more developed, the Or Bor Tor may be dissolved and replaced by a Tesaban Tambon (Town Municipality), which takes over its local administrative functions.