Bali Considers Hotel, Restaurant Construction Ban Following Deadly Floods

Bali Considers Ban on New Hotels and Restaurants After Severe Flooding

Bali is considering a ban on the construction of new hotels and restaurants following devastating flash flooding earlier this month. The decision comes after a state of emergency was declared on September 10th, following the worst flooding the island has seen in over a decade.

Devastating Floods Prompt Government Action

Heavy rain caused rivers to burst their banks, impacting nine cities and districts and submerging at least 112 neighborhoods, according to the Bali Disaster Mitigation Agency. At least 18 people died in the flooding. Now, the government plans to halt new building permits on “productive land,” including Bali’s famous rice fields. Experts suggest that stricter controls are crucial for mitigating the impact of future flooding and other natural disasters.

Details of the Proposed Ban

According to Indonesia’s state news agency, Antara, Governor Wayan Koster stated:

“After handling the floods, we will meet again to ensure no more permits are issued for hotels, restaurants, or other facilities on productive land, especially rice fields."

Koster added, "Starting this year, the land conversion ban will align with Bali’s 100-year plan. From 2025 onward, no productive land can be converted into commercial facilities.”

Broader Context: Environmental Concerns and Tourism

Heavy seasonal rain from September to March frequently leads to flooding and landslides in Indonesia. The regional bylaw prohibiting land conversions is based on recommendations from Bali’s environment minister, Hanif Faisol Nurofiq. Nurofiq stated:

"This is also crucial for Bali’s tourism, as the recent flooding has drawn serious attention...I actually told the governor last week that I really hope he will immediately stop land conversions in Bali. This is extremely important."

Impact on Private Residences and Tourist Behavior

According to Antara, land conversion for private residences will be granted by the government with selective permits, but not for commercial properties. Environmental activists have repeatedly warned of the impact of mass tourism on the island. In March, Bali authorities issued new guidelines to address “misbehaviour” among foreign tourists, which include: