Summary
Before you start operating your hospitality establishment, you must obtain a hospitality certificate of conformity from the municipality where your establishment is located.
A form must be completed, and accompanied as necessary by certain documents. Contact the municipality concerned to find out about the procedure you need to follow.
In detail
In most municipalities in Wallonia, prior authorisation is required to open a hospitality business.
An application must be submitted to the service of the middle classes (service des classes moyennes) of the municipality concerned. Some municipalities have a unit dealing specifically with hospitality businesses.
The municipality will grant authorisation after checking that the prospective operator meets all the legal requirements and has completed the necessary formalities. The municipality may also carry out an inspection before allowing business to commence.
The municipality will generally request the following documents:
- a letter requesting the opening of an establishment, describing the planned activity (including a supporting plan, where applicable);
- a copy of the operator’s identity card;
- a criminal record certificate for the partners and managers (depending on the municipality, you must apply for this document through either the police or another specialist department);
- the company number;
- a copy of the company’s articles of association;
- for restaurant head chefs, a copy of a document confirming the right to exercise the profession;
- a certificate of inspection of electrical installations, issued by an approved body;
- proof of authorisation from the Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain (FASFC);
- proof of planning permission, if such a permit is required under urban planning legislation;
- if applicable, an application for authorisation to install a terrace (with a plan of the terrace and the surrounding public area);
- if applicable, a licence to sell fermented beverages and/or a licence to sell spirit drinks (issued by the municipality);
- depending on the municipality, other documents may also be requested.
Cost
A municipal fee is often payable for the opening, reopening or takeover of a hospitality establishment.
Contact the municipality concerned to find out the exact cost.
The available payment methods may differ depending on the municipality and may include cash, card, bank transfer, or electronic payment if the municipality has an e-counter.
Deadlines
This procedure must be completed at least 30 days before your establishment opens. Contact the municipality concerned to find out the exact details.