No, Public intoxication is illegal in Vietnam under the Penal Code (2015, amended 2026) and the Law on Handling Administrative Violations (2020). Violators face fines up to 5 million VND or administrative detention, with stricter penalties if behavior escalates to disorderly conduct or violence. Local police (Công an) enforce these rules, particularly in urban areas like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
Key Regulations for Public Intoxication in Vietnam
- Administrative Penalties: Under Decree 144/2021/ND-CP, individuals found intoxicated in public may be fined 1–5 million VND (approx. $43–215 USD) or held for up to 12 hours for sobering up. Repeat offenses trigger higher fines.
- Criminal Liability: If public intoxication leads to violence, property damage, or endangers others, Article 319 of the 2015 Penal Code (amended 2026) imposes fines or imprisonment up to 3 years. Courts consider intent and harm severity.
- Local Enforcement: Municipal authorities, such as Hanoi’s Department of Public Security, deploy mobile patrols in nightlife districts (e.g., Bui Vien) to monitor compliance. Businesses serving alcohol must display “No Public Intoxication” signs or risk license revocation.