Tourism flanders

The Flemish Accommodation Decree ensures the safety, quality, and comfort of lodging for tourists. Consequently, all tourist accommodations in Flanders are required to adhere to fundamental standards. In addition to these basic requirements, there may be general and specific opening and operational conditions based on the type of accommodation you provide.

Key Standards of the Accommodation Decree

1. The operation of your tourist accommodation must be registered with Tourism Flanders.

2. Your accommodation must comply with established fire safety regulations, and you must possess a fire safety certificate as proof.

3. You are required to meet minimum standards for comfort and quality, ensuring that all accessible areas of the accommodation are kept clean and well-maintained.

4. As the operator, you must have both fire insurance and civil liability insurance for the accommodation and its operations, protecting against any damages caused by you or your staff during operation.

5. The manager or person overseeing daily operations must not have a criminal record for certain offenses.

6. Accommodations must be rented for a minimum of one night; hourly rentals are not permitted.

7. You need to provide evidence of ownership of the accommodation or a rental agreement that grants you the right to operate it.

8. As the operator, you must provide honest and accurate information regarding your accommodation.

9. Your accommodation must comply with local urban planning regulations, and you must obtain all necessary permits. For assistance, contact your local planning authority.

Minimum Comfort and Quality Standards

These basic requirements apply to all accommodations rented to tourists. The minimum comfort and quality standards specify the essential equipment, furnishings, and amenities that must be available in the accommodation. These standards vary depending on whether the accommodation is room-based, site-based, or categorized as youth accommodation. As an operator, you have the discretion to select the category that best fits your accommodation. If your accommodation meets the nine basic standards outlined above, along with the conditions and operational standards of one of these three categories, you may legally operate it as an 'accommodation.'

Should you present your accommodation under a protected designation (such as vacation home, hotel, B&B, hostel, camping site, or vacation park), additional requirements must be fulfilled.