Punjab, known for its vibrant culture and warm hospitality, encourages the establishment of homestays and Bed and Breakfast (BnB) accommodations to promote tourism and provide unique experiences to visitors. 

2. Definitions and Eligibility 

• Homestay: A private residence where the homeowner or family resides and offers accommodation to tourists. 
• BnB (Bed and Breakfast): A facility providing overnight accommodation and breakfast, typically in a residential setting. 

Eligibility Criteria 

• The property should be owned by an individual or family. 
• The owner must reside on the premises. 
• Minimum one room and maximum six rooms can be allocated for tourists. 
• Compliance with local safety and hygiene standards. 

Key Regulatory Bodies: 

• Punjab Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC): Though not a direct regulator, PTDC plays a significant role in promoting tourism and can provide valuable guidance. 
• Department of Local Government: This department oversees municipal corporations and other local bodies responsible for granting licenses and permits. 
• Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI): If your establishment serves food, FSSAI registration is mandatory. 
• Fire Department: Obtaining fire safety clearance is essential for any accommodation. 

Classification of Homestays and B&Bs 

Punjab currently does not have a specific classification system for homestays and B&Bs. However, you can categorize your property based on amenities, location, and target audience. 

Mandatory Registrations and Licenses 

1. Trade License: Obtain a trade license from the local municipal corporation where your property is located. 
2. GST Registration: If your annual turnover exceeds the GST threshold, registration is mandatory. 
3. Service Tax Registration: If applicable, based on your services. 
4. Professional Tax: Pay professional tax as per the state's regulations. 
5. Food License (if applicable): If you serve food, FSSAI registration is compulsory. 
6. Fire Safety Clearance: Obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the local fire department. 
7. Pollution Control Board (PCB) Clearance: If your establishment generates any kind of pollution, PCB clearance might be required. 

Additional Considerations 

• Guest House/Hotel License: In some cases, depending on the scale of your operation, obtaining a guest house or hotel license might be necessary. Consult with the local authorities for clarity. 
• Local Body Approvals: Ensure compliance with local building regulations, occupancy limits, and other relevant bylaws. 
• Tourism Department Registration: While not mandatory, registering with the Punjab Tourism Development Corporation can offer benefits like promotion and support. 

Documents Required for Registration 

The specific documents required may vary depending on the nature of your business and local regulations. However, some common documents include: 

• Proof of property ownership 
• Identity proof of the owner 
• Address proof 
• Layout plan of the property 
• Fire safety NOC 
• FSSAI license (if applicable) 
• GST/Service Tax registration (if applicable) 
• Photographs of the property 
• Local body approvals 

3. Registration Process 

Step 1: Application Submission 

• Visit the Official Website: Access the Punjab Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) website or visit their office to obtain the application form. 

• Website: punjabtourism 

https://punjabtourism.punjab.gov.in/ 

• Fill the Application Form: Complete the form with accurate details about the property, owner, and facilities offered. 

Step 2: Document Submission 

• Identity and Address Proof: Aadhar Card, PAN Card, or Passport along with utility bills. 
• Property Ownership Documents: Sale deed or lease agreement. 
• NOC from Local Authority: No Objection Certificate from the local municipal authority. 
• Fire Safety Certificate: Ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations. 
• Layout Plan and Photographs: Detailed layout plan of the property and photographs of rooms. 

Step 3: Inspection and Approval 

• Property Inspection: PTDC officials will inspect the property for compliance with guidelines. 
• Approval: Upon successful verification, PTDC will issue an approval certificate. 

Step 4: Licensing and Renewal 

• License Issuance: A license to operate a homestay/BnB will be granted. 
• Annual Renewal: Renew the license annually with updated documents. 

4. Operational Guidelines 

Safety and Facilities 

• Fire Safety: Install necessary fire safety equipment. 
• Guest Register: Maintain a register of all guests with identification details. 
• Hygiene: Ensure cleanliness and hygiene in rooms and common areas. 
• Amenities: Provide basic amenities like clean linen, toiletries, and breakfast for BnB guests. 

Pricing and Marketing 

• Tariff: Set competitive tariff rates. 
• Tax Compliance: Adhere to local tax regulations. 
• Marketing: List on tourism websites and collaborate with local tourism offices for promotion. 

5. Contact Information 

Punjab Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) 

• Website: https://punjabtourism.punjab.gov.in/ 

• Contact Details: Available on their website. 

6. Additional Resources 

• Full guidelines: punjabtourism 
• Registration process: https://eservices.punjab.gov.in/ 

These links and guidelines will assist you in understanding the process of establishing and operating homestays and BnBs in Punjab effectively. For detailed information and updates, refer to the official PTDC website and contact their offices directly.

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