Chandigarh notifies new bed and breakfast rules for large residential houses | What new policy means for you ?

PTC News Desk: The Chandigarh Administration has officially allowed owners of large residential houses to run paid bed-and-breakfast (B&B) accommodations under a newly notified policy.

The administration says the move is aimed at promoting tourism, providing visitors with affordable homestay options and creating an additional source of income for homeowners. However, the decision is likely to revive concerns among resident welfare associations, many of which had opposed the proposal when the draft policy was released. More than 200 residents' associations had reportedly objected to the plan.

The notification was issued by the Estates Department under the Chandigarh Estate Rules, 2007, with the approval of UT Administrator and Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria.

Under the policy, only residential properties measuring 500 square yards or more can operate as B&B establishments. Property owners must register under the Tourism Department's B&B policy and obtain all necessary permissions and No Objection Certificates (NOCs) before starting operations.

Officials said the policy is designed to encourage clean, affordable and authentic homestay experiences while supporting the city's tourism infrastructure. They also stressed that safeguards have been included to ensure that residential areas are not adversely affected.

Key Features of the Policy

Only residential properties of 500 square yards or above are eligible.

Registration under the Tourism Department's B&B Policy is mandatory.

Only the property owner can apply for registration.

All required permissions and NOCs must be obtained before operations begin.

The administration believes these conditions will help regulate the activity and prevent misuse, while allowing homeowners to benefit from tourism-related income opportunities.