Although there is as yet no substantive legislation covering the tourism sector, the Lao government has sought to deal with immediate areas of concern, such as the need to regulate the establishment and operation of tourism businesses, construction work in designated heritage areas and the development of ecotourism..

In accordance with Regulation 1150 of the Cabinet of the Prime Minister's Office, all tourism businesses, including tour companies, hotels and other establishments which cater to tourists, are required to obtain licences from the LNTA and other relevant authorities. Such licenses are initially issued for a period of two years, after which they may be extended for an additional two years. Laos currently has approximately 62 tourism companies, both private and government-run.

The 1997 Presidential Decree on the Preservation of Cultural, Historic and Natural Heritage, which outlines regulations and measures for the management, conservation, preservation and use of the national heritage, requires that a survey of national heritage should be undertaken every five years in order to establish an inventory; that maintenance, repair or modification to the features of national heritage shall require approval; and that no construction, restaurant or entertainment premises may be established within archaeological or natural sites. In addition, as noted earlier, Luang Prabang has its own special master plan and similar schemes are being implemented at Wat Phu Champassak and the Plain of Jars.

The Lao government has also established broad guidelines for the development of ecotourism which emphasise careful capacity management, sustainable use of resources, respect for cultural and natural diversity and the involvement of local communities in decision-making processes.