Tourists staying with the public overnight must be reported

This is to avoid unfair competition, the Flemish Tourism Minister Geert Bourgeois argues. Those that don’t apply and get caught risk a fine of EUR 250.

If you offer overnight stays to tourists on a private basis, you have to complete the official registration forms supplied by the Flemish government.

"This obligation also applies to those offering overnight stays online through the Couchsurfing and Airbnb", Mr Bourgeois (Flemish nationalist) points out. 

The statement comes as the success of these websites continues.

An estimated 25,000 Flemish residents are offering overnight stays in this way.

Mr Bourgeois says that this is unfair compeititon towards hotels and B&Bs if they do it for commercial reasons.

"We received demands from the hospitality sector to create an equal framework."

Safety is another important aspect for Mr Bourgeois: "If you receive a third party at your home, you should respect a minimum of quality and safety standards."

This includes the presence of fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, emergency exits and signalisation.

The rules don’t apply if you just have your family or friends stay overnight, Mr Bourgeois adds.

"You don’t need a permit in that case. It only involves commercial stays, not if you have your friends or family members stay the night."

Flandersnews.be / Expatica