L.S. 409.24 Regolamenti dwar l-Alloġġ Turistiku Parzjalment fis-Seħħ

(1)The title of these regulations is the Tourism Accommodation Regulations. Citation and commencement.

(2)These regulations shall come into force within two

(2)months from their date of publication in the Gazette with the following exceptions: (

1. a)item 3 of Category C: Guest Houses of Annex 2 and Item 3 of Category D: Hostels of Annex 2 and Part F of the Fifth Schedule of Annex 5 shall come into force on such date or dates as the Minister responsible for tourism, may by notice in the Gazette establish and different dates may be so established for different provisions and, or purposes of these regulations; (
2. b)Standard 2.49 of the Third Schedule to Annex 5, Standard 2.49 of the Fourth Schedule to Annex 5, Standards 2.4.12, 5.2.5 and 6.2.7 of the Sixth Schedule to Annex 5 shall come into force two years after the publication of these regulations; (
3. c)Standard 2.1 of the Sixth Schedule - Private Rented Accommodation in respect of Annex 4, Category E, shall come into force only for establishments in respect of which the contract of sale was entered into after the coming into force of these regulations, unless it is demonstrated that the relative promise of sale was entered into before the coming into force of these regulations. 2. requires:

(1)In these regulations, unless the context otherwise "accommodation" means a room or rooms furnished and *Vide Regulation 1

(2)of Legal Notice 92 of 2026: (

1. a)item 3 of Category C: Guest Houses of Annex 2 and Item 3 of Category D: Hostels of Annex 2 and Part F of the Fifth Schedule of Annex 5 shall come into force on such date or dates as the Minister responsible for tourism, may by notice in the Gazette establish and different dates may be so established for different provisions and, or purposes of these regulations; (
2. b)Standard 2.49 of the Third Schedule to Annex 5, Standard 2.49 of the Fourth Schedule to Annex 5, Standards 2.4.12, 5.2.5 and 6.2.7 of the Sixth Schedule to Annex 5 shall come into force two years after the publication of these regulations; (
3. c)Standard 2.1 of the Sixth Schedule - Private Rented Accommodation in respect of Annex 4, Category E, shall come into force only for establishments in respect of which the contract of sale was entered into after the coming into force of these regulations, unless it is demonstrated that the relative promise of sale was entered into before the coming into force of these regulations. Interpretation. 1 2 [ S.L. 409.24] TOURISM ACCOMMODATION equipped to provide living accommodation to a person; "accommodation units" means guest bedrooms, suites, or self catering units; Cap. 409. "Act" means the Malta Travel and Tourism Services Act; "advertisement" means the making of a representation in any form in connection with a trade or business in order to promote the supply of goods or services, including the making of any such representation, any words, letters, models, signs, placards, boards, notices, brochures or devices, whether illuminated or not, in the nature of and employed wholly or in part for the purposes of advertisement, announcement or direction, and any boarding or similar structure used or adapted for use for the display of advertisements and "advertise" shall be construed accordingly; "all-inclusive accommodation" means a type of lodging offered at a single fixed price that includes, as a minimum, the provision of accommodation, breakfast, lunch and dinner, nonalcoholic beverages, and a range of additional services or amenities such as snacks, alcoholic drinks, entertainment, recreational activities and taxes, without requiring separate payment for each component during the guest’s stay; "Authority" means the Malta Tourism Authority as established by article 3 of the Act and includes any person acting on its behalf under powers delegated by the Authority under the said Act; "bed and breakfast" means in the context of a special label as established in regulation 5, a two

(2)star, three

(3)star or four

(4)star hotel in accordance with the standards and criteria as established in Part A of the Fifth Schedule of Annex 5; "bunk beds" means a system of two

(2)or more beds placed over each other; "catering establishment" shall have the same meaning as assigned to it in the Act; "collective accommodation" means hotels and other hotel-type accommodation establishments, which are offered to the public against payment, and which accommodation includes, but is not limited to hotels, tourist villages, guest houses, hostels, that require a licence issued by the Authority in order to operate, and "collective accommodation establishment" and "collective accommodation operations" shall be construed TOURISM ACCOMMODATION [ S.L. 409.24] accordingly; "complete application" means an application which is deemed to be complete when the Authority is in receipt of a complete filled-in application form, together with all the documentation required to be submitted with the applicable form, and as validated by the Authority accordingly; "Eco Certification" means a certificate issued by any internationally renowned entity as the Authority may recognize and publish officially from time to time; "enforcement notice" shall have the same meaning assigned to it in article 41 of the Act; "farmhouse" means any property used for the accommodation of tourists, which is entirely self-contained and has sleeping, cooking, and dining facilities, built and finished in such a way as to represent a typical Maltese farmhouse, generally furnished in a rustic style and located in a village or rural setting; "guest" means a person who is provided with accommodation at a hotel, tourist village, guest house, hostel, holiday premises, lodging house or other premises used for the provision of accommodation to tourists, or who has such accommodation placed at his disposal in any such place; "guest house" shall have the same meaning assigned to it in the Act and, more specifically, in accordance with the standards established in the Third Schedule to Annex 5; "hostel" shall have the same meaning assigned to it in the Act and, more specifically, in accordance with the standards established in the Fourth Schedule of Annex 5; "hotel" shall have the same meaning assigned to it in the Act and, more specifically, in accordance with the classification standards established in the First Schedule of Annex 5; "incomplete application" means an application which is not deemed as such where either the Authority is not in receipt of all the information or documentation required to be submitted with the application form, or where such information or documentation is incorrect, or where the application form is incomplete or not filled in correctly; "licence" or "operating licence" means a licence issued in accordance with these regulations by the Authority; "licensee" means the person, natural or legal in whose 3 4 [ S.L. 409.24] TOURISM ACCOMMODATION name the licence is issued; "operator" shall have the same meaning assigned to it in the Act; "resident host" means a person in whose name a licence for the accommodation of tourists has been issued and who resides in any building, howsoever described, not being a hotel, tourist village, guesthouse, hostel or short-let rented accommodation, which is normally used for the permanent or temporary habitation of the licensee and is used or intended to be used, for the concurrent habitation of guests; "special label" means a label of a particular type assigned by the Authority to a hotel, tourist village, guesthouse or farmhouse to distinguish between different types of accommodation according to their main use or character; "self-catering unit" means an accommodation unit within a tourism accommodation establishment for use by guests which, in addition to the facilities and furnishings of a hotel room, also provides kitchen, living and dining facilities in accordance with the standards established in Part 2 of the First Schedule to Annex 5; "Tourism Policy Compliance Certificate" means the preliminary compliance certificate issued by the Authority with regard to applications for new collective accommodation insofar as extensions, modifications or redevelopments or for reclassification of existing collective accommodation; "tourism operation" shall have the same meaning assigned to it in the Act and "operator" shall be construed accordingly; "tourist" means any person who is travelling to and staying in places outside his usual environment for not more than one

(1)consecutive year for leisure, business and other personal purposes, other than for the purpose of taking up employment or establishing a business in the place visited; "tourist village" means any building, howsoever described, which shall not exceed the maximum height of three

(3)storeys, is detached from any other building and is situated within an extensive and defined parcel of land in which accommodation, ancillary services and amenities are provided by a common management, and which comprises accommodation units consisting of guest bedrooms, suites or self-catering units, or any combination thereof, and in which sport and, or recreational activities are offered and other TOURISM ACCOMMODATION [ S.L. 409.24] outdoor facilities are provided.

(2)Unless the context otherwise requires, words and phrases used in these regulations which are not defined in this regulation shall have the same meaning as is assigned to them in the Act. 3.

(1)A Tourism Policy Compliance Certificate shall be required in respect of all categories of collective accommodation listed in the Annexes in the case of: (

1. a)new developments; (
2. b)redevelopments; (
3. c)changes in designation; or (
4. d)reclassifications. Tourism Policy Compliance Certificates.

(2)A Tourism Policy Compliance Certificate shall be obtained prior to the submission of an application for a development permission or an application for an operating licence from the Authority, where such licence is required in accordance with these regulations and shall have a validity period of three

(3)years from the date of issue.

(3)An application for the issuance of a Tourism Policy Compliance certificate shall be submitted to the Authority using the appropriate application form issued by the Authority, which shall be made available on the Authority’s website, accompanied by the applicable fee as stipulated in the Fees (Tourism) Regulations.       S.L. 409.05.

(4)The Authority shall, without undue delay, acknowledge receipt of a complete application for a Tourism Policy Compliance Certificate upon submission. The Authority shall render its decision of the application in a durable medium within sixty

(60)days from the date of its validation.

(5)At any time, whether before or after validation, if the applicant fails to respond to a request for missing documentation, clarifications, or information within ninety

(90)days from the date of the last communication issued by the Authority, the application shall be deemed tacitly withdrawn by the applicant without entitlement to a refund. During such period of non-compliance, the sixty

(60)day timeframe stipulated in sub-regulation

(4)shall be suspended and shall resume only upon submission of the requested documentation, clarifications and information to the Authority. 4.

(1)An operating licence shall be required for the operation of any tourism activity listed in the Annexes: Provided that in the case of a renewal of an operating Operating Licences. 5 6 [ S.L. 409.24] TOURISM ACCOMMODATION licence, the Authority may for reasonable justification, exempt the licensee from any conditions established in the Annexes.

(2)An operating license shall be valid for a determinate period, and may be renewed by the Authority.       S.L. 409.05.

(3)An application for the issuance of an operating licence shall be submitted to the Authority using the appropriate application form issued by the Authority, which shall be made available on the Authority’s website, accompanied by the applicable fee as stipulated in the Fees (Tourism) Regulations.

(4)No person, whether a natural person or the legal representative of a legal entity, shall be eligible to apply for an operating licence unless that person satisfies the Authority that they are a fit and proper person to operate a tourism activity, and provides a valid police conduct certificate confirming that they have not been convicted, in Malta or in any other jurisdiction, of an offence punishable by imprisonment of six

(6)months or more within the preceding five

(5)years.

(5)The Authority shall, without undue delay, acknowledge receipt of a complete application for an operating licence upon submission. The Authority shall render its decision of the application within sixty

(60)days from the date of its validation.

(6)At any time, whether before or after validation, if the applicant fails to respond to a request for missing documentation, clarifications, or information within ninety

(90)days from the date of the last communication issued by the Authority, the application shall be deemed tacitly withdrawn by the applicant, without entitlement to a refund. During this period of non-compliance, the sixty

(60)day timeframe referred to in sub-regulation

(5)shall be suspended and shall resume only upon submission of the requested documentation, clarifications and information to the Authority.

(7)The licensee shall inform the Authority of any changes or alterations, if any, affecting the establishment’s operation including the basic data of the licensee and, or operator.

(8)In the case of alterations that may or shall prejudice the classification assigned to the establishment, the licensee shall seek the Authority’s prior approval. Special labels. 5.

(1)A licensee may apply for the issuance of a special label, as regulated under Annex 3.

(2)A special label shall be valid for a determinate period and may be renewed by the Authority. TOURISM ACCOMMODATION [ S.L. 409.24] 7

(3)An application for the issuance of a special label shall be submitted to the Authority using the appropriate application form issued by the Authority, which shall be made available on the Authority’s website.

(4)The Authority shall, without undue delay, acknowledge receipt of a complete application for a special label upon submission. The Authority shall give its decision on the application within sixty

(60)days from the date of its validation.

(5)At any time, whether before or after validation, if the applicant fails to respond to a request for missing documentation, clarifications, or information within ninety

(90)days from the date of the last communication issued by the Authority, the application shall be deemed tacitly withdrawn by the applicant, without entitlement to a refund. During this period of non-compliance, the sixty

(60)day timeframe stipulated in sub-regulation

(4)shall be suspended and shall resume only upon submission of the requested documentation, clarifications and information to the Authority.

(6)The holder of a special label shall inform the Authority of any changes or alterations, if any, affecting the establishment’s operation including the basic data of the licensee and, or operator.

(7)In the case of alterations that may or shall prejudice the classification assigned to the establishment, the holder of the special label shall seek the Authority’s prior approval. 6.

(1)In deciding an application for a Tourism Policy Compliance Certificate, an operating licence, or a special label, or in expressing its formal position as a competent authority in relation to a specific proposal or matter, the Authority shall have due regard to the following criteria: (

1. a)the National Tourism Strategy in force at the moment of the decision; (
2. b)the extent to which the proposed development or operation adds value, enhances the overall quality of the visitor experience, and complies with national objectives relating to climate change and sustainability, including the progressive phasing out of obsolete or undesirable accommodation offerings; (
3. c)the prevailing levels of bed stock within the relevant locality or region, particularly in the assessment of proposals for new accommodation; (
4. d)the strategic vision of other competent authorities in promoting managed and targeted growth in areas identified Decision in respect of an application. 8 [ S.L. 409.24] TOURISM ACCOMMODATION as requiring investment; (
5. e)the criteria and standards established in the Annexes, insofar as they are applicable to the application in question: Provided that the Authority may for duly justified and compelling reasons, attribute greater weight to one or more of the listed criteria, or depart from any such criteria, where it considers it reasonable and, or in the public interest and, or in furtherance of the objectives of the Act: Provided further that any such departure shall be expressly stated, reasoned, and recorded in the decision of the Authority: Provided further that where the Authority decides to refuse an application or to issue an unfavourable position in relation to any matter referred to in this sub-regulation, it shall state its reasons clearly and in sufficient detail.

(2)Where the subject is not expressly contemplated or designated within any of the Annexes, the Authority may nonetheless consider a favourable outcome, provided that in reaching its decision, a balanced approach is adopted and the outcome of the assessment, insofar as applicable, aligns with the criteria established in subregulation

(1).

(3)A position taken by the Authority in respect of any matter referred to in sub-regulation

(1), after the Authority has received all the requisite information, shall be deemed to constitute a decision for the purposes of these regulations and may be subject to reconsideration or appeal in accordance with the provisions of regulation 8. Enforcement. 7.

(1)The Authority shall have the power to carry out unannounced site inspections at any establishment falling within the scope of these regulations, and to conduct investigations for the purpose of assessing the standards of such establishments: Provided that any gathered personal data is limited to the extent necessary for the purpose of performing such investigation.

(2)Without prejudice to any other remedy available at law, where an establishment fails to meet the mandatory requirements established in these regulations, the Authority may grant a reasonable timeframe for the rectification of such shortcomings.

(3)Where shortcomings are not remedied within the timeframe specified by the Authority, the Authority may take TOURISM ACCOMMODATION [ S.L. 409.24] 9 appropriate enforcement or regulatory action, including without limitation: (

1. a)issuance of an enforcement notice in accordance with articles 40 to 42 of the Act; (
2. b)operation; reconsideration of the classification of the tourism (
3. c)suspension or revocation of the operating licence.

(4)A position taken by the Authority in respect of any matter referred to in this regulation, shall be deemed to constitute a decision for the purposes of these regulations and may be subject to appeal in accordance with the provisions of regulation 8. 8.

(1)An applicant who feels aggrieved by a decision issued in accordance with regulations 6 and 7 shall have the right to appeal such decision before the Tourism Appeals Board in accordance with the provisions of Title III of the Act.

(2)An appeal in accordance with sub-regulation

(1)shall be made not later than fifteen

(15)days from the date on which the Authority’s decision is served upon the applicant by means of registered mail: Provided that in case the applicant is not duly notified by means of registered mail, the said term shall commence to run from the date of the publication of the said decision in the Gazette.

(3)An applicant who feels aggrieved by a decision issued in accordance with regulation 6

(3)may request the Authority to reconsider its decision by submitting a request in writing to the Authority clearly stating the grounds for reconsideration. Such request shall be made not later than fifteen

(15)days from the date on which the Authority’s decision is served upon the application by means of registered mail. In the case that the applicant is not duly served by means of registered mail, the said term shall commence to run from the date of the publication of the said decision in the Gazette. If following the reconsideration the applicant remains dissatisfied with the outcome, the applicant shall have the right to appeal the decision before the Tourism Appeals Board in accordance with sub-regulation

(1). Reconsideration and, or appeal from Authority decisions. 10 [ S.L. 409.24] Processing of personal data.        Cap. 586. TOURISM ACCOMMODATION 9.

(1)Any processing of personal data conducted by the Authority for the purposes of performing its tasks under these regulations shall fully comply with the provisions of Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 April 2016 on the protection of natural persons with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data, and repealing Directive 95/46/EC (General Data Protection Regulation) and the Data Protection Act, including the regulations made thereunder and the fundamental rights and freedoms of the data subjects.

(2)The Authority acting in its capacity of a controller in terms of Article 4

(7)of Regulation (EU) 2016/679 shall perform the relevant processing operations which are strictly necessary for the purposes of these regulations.

(3)The Authority, whilst taking into account the nature, scope, context and purposes of processing as well as the risks of varying likelihood and severity for the rights and freedoms of the data subjects, shall implement appropriate technical and organisational measures, in an effective manner and to integrate the necessary safeguards into the processing, in order to protect the rights of the data subjects and to ensure a level of security appropriate to the risk.

(4)For the purposes of ensuring and of being able to demonstrate that the processing of personal data is performed in accordance with the provisions of Regulation (EU) 2016/679, the Authority shall implement the appropriate data protection policies, which policies shall be periodically reviewed and updated where necessary.

(5)The Authority shall ensure that the physical and, or electronic access to personal data processed for the purposes of these regulations shall be strictly granted to personnel authorised by it on the basis of a role-base access control mechanism and subject to confidentiality and, or professional secrecy obligations, in order to prevent abuse or unlawful access to, or disclosure of personal data.

(6)The data protection officer designated by the Authority in accordance with Article 37

(1)(a) of Regulation (EU) 2016/679 shall be involved and consulted properly and in a timely manner on all issues in relation to the protection of personal data.

(7)The Authority may, for the purposes of enforcing these regulations or any other applicable law, disclose or communicate any data or information collected by it, provided that such disclosure or communication is authorised by law. TOURISM ACCOMMODATION [ S.L. 409.24] ANNEX 1 – GENERAL DESIGN CRITERIA 1. Where the Authority is requested to provide its position on the prospects of new hotels it shall have regard to the following criteria:

(1)The request shall be considered once the applicant submits, together with the required documentation, a business plan outlining the scope of the proposed development, its projected benefits, and its consistency with the current National Tourism Strategy.

(2)Only applications for new three

(3), four

(4)or five

(5)star hotel establishments shall be considered.

(3)Save in the case of heritage buildings characterised by the property’s distinctive architectural features and heritage elements, sites shall not be considered eligible if they have a frontage of less than twenty-five

(25)metres or if they lack sufficient depth to allow for an internal layout that meets the standards applicable to the proposed category, as established in Part 3 of Schedule 1 of Annex 5.

(4)Proposed developments shall demonstrate alignment with identified market niches and segments as well as address the issue of seasonality.

(5)Partnership or affiliation agreements with internationally recognised hotel brands for purposes of management and, or branding are encouraged.

(6)The development of themed hotels, as well as the incorporation of innovative design and advanced technological features are also encouraged.

(7)Applications proposing more than two hundred

(200)guest rooms shall not be considered.

(8)Only guest rooms that enjoy a satisfactory external outlook shall be approved.

(9)The number of guest rooms overlooking internal courtyards or backyards shall be kept to a minimum. Any such rooms shall comply with a minimum separation distance of four

(4)metres measured from the bedroom aperture.

(10)Applications proposing development exceeding the maximum permitted height established in the relevant Local Plan Height Limitation Maps or Development Briefs shall not be considered. New hotels. 11 12 [ S.L. 409.24] TOURISM ACCOMMODATION

(11)Any development intended to provide all-inclusive accommodation shall be strictly prohibited.

(12)Residential units shall not be permitted as part of the hotel development. Where residential units form part of the overall site, they shall be clearly delineated and separated from the hotel premises on all plans submitted to the Authority. Extension to, or redevelopment of a hotel. 2. Where the Authority is requested to provide its position on the prospects of an extension to, or redevelopment of a hotel within the statutory building height limitation, it shall have regard to the following criteria:

(1)Only applications for hotels that aim to achieve an upgrade from a two

(2)-star to a three

(3)star classification shall be considered, as well as applications concerning existing three

(3)star, four

(4)star, or five

(5)star hotels with the objective of maintaining or improving their current classification.

(2)A site shall remain eligible where its frontage measures less than twenty-five

(25)metres, provided that all other standards applicable to the proposed category, as established in Part 3 of Schedule 1 to Annex 5, are fully complied with.

(3)Proposals shall demonstrate alignment with identified market niches and segments, which address issues of seasonality.

(4)Partnership or affiliation agreements with internationally recognised hotel brands for purposes of management and, or branding are encouraged.

(5)The development of themed hotels and the incorporation of innovative design and advanced technology are encouraged.

(6)Applications proposing more than two hundred

(200)guest rooms shall not be considered.

(7)Only guest rooms that enjoy a satisfactory external outlook shall be approved.

(8)The number of guest rooms overlooking internal courtyards or backyards shall be minimised. Any such rooms shall maintain a minimum distance of four

(4)metres from the bedroom aperture.

(9)Applications proposing development exceeding TOURISM ACCOMMODATION [ S.L. 409.24] 13 the maximum permitted height established in the relevant Local Plan Height Limitation Maps or Development Briefs shall not be considered.

(10)Any development intended to provide allinclusive accommodation shall be prohibited, unless it consists of works relating solely to the upgrading of existing operations.

(11)Residential units shall not be permitted as part of the hotel development. Where residential units form part of the overall site, they shall be clearly delineated and separated from the hotel premises on all plans submitted to the Authority. 3. Where the Authority is requested to provide its position on the prospects of tourist villages, it shall have regard to the following criteria:

(1)New development applications for establishment of tourist villages shall not be accepted. Tourist villages. the

(2)Where the development proposal concerns an operating tourist village, the request shall be considered once the applicant submits, together with the required documentation, a business plan outlining the scope of the proposal, its projected benefits, and its consistency with the current National Tourism Strategy. 4. Where the Authority is requested to provide its position on guest houses, it shall have regard to the following criteria: Guest houses.

(1)New guest houses shall only be permitted in Urban Conservation Areas, within Scheduled Properties, or in buildings exhibiting special architectural character, where the proposed development is primarily focused on the preservation, enhancement and celebration of the property’s distinctive architectural features and heritage elements and, or expressly allowed in the rural policy of the Planning Authority.

(2)Guest houses shall provide a maximum of twenty

(20)bedrooms, with not more than forty

(40)beds in total, whether established under a new licence application or as an extension to an existing licensed guest house.

(3)Incremental additions to the accommodation capacity of existing guest houses shall not be favourably considered unless the proposed development demonstrably results in a final product of high-level added value, in terms of quality, design, and service offered. 5. Where the Authority is requested to provide its position on hostels, it shall have regard to the following criteria: Hostels. 14 [ S.L. 409.24] TOURISM ACCOMMODATION

(1)Any new hostel shall be physically integrated within a school or other educational institution, forming an integral part thereof.

(2)The redevelopment of existing hostels may be considered, provided the proposal is duly justified and demonstrates a clear improvement in the quality of accommodation and services offered.

(3)New hostels and any extensions to licensed hostels in residential zones designated by local plans shall provide a maximum of forty

(40)beds in total inclusive of the existing number of beds. This limit shall not apply in other zones.

(4)All new hostels, as well as extensions, upgrades, or redevelopment of existing hostels, shall provide accommodation in single rooms, twin rooms, or rooms containing not more than six

(6)beds, each of which shall be equipped with en-suite or dedicated sanitary facilities. Dormitory-style rooms of large capacity shall not be permitted. ANNEX 2 – COLLECTIVE ACCOMMODATION CATEGORY A: Hotels Requirement for a licence.

1. A person shall not operate a hotel unless a licence has been duly issued by the Authority in accordance with the provisions of these regulations. Application for a licence.
2. A licence to operate a hotel classified as three star, including also when such classification constitutes an upgrade from an existing two

(2)star classification, or classified as three

(3)star, four

(4)star or five

(5)star from inception, subject to compliance with the standard requirements established in Parts 1 to 3 of the First Schedule of Annex 5, as applicable, shall only be issued by the Authority upon the fulfilment of all the following essential criteria: (

1. a)submission of complete and accurate information regarding the licensee and designated operator, as applicable; (
2. b)a valid development permission; (
3. c)certification by an architect that the premises are in conformity with the approved development planning permission; TOURISM ACCOMMODATION [ S.L. 409.24] 15 (
4. d)certification issued by the relevant competent authorities confirming compliance, as applicable; (
5. e)submission of valid proof of insurance; (
6. f)fulfilment of any other requirements as may be established by the Authority; (
7. g)evidence to demonstrate that the Tourism Policy Compliance Certificate was issued pursuant to an application submitted to the Authority in accordance with these regulations, and only after the applicant has fully satisfied all of the requirements; (
8. h)compliance with the classification criteria established in Part 1 of the First Schedule of Annex 5: Provided that the licensee shall comply with all the mandatory requirements listed in Part 1 of the First Schedule of Annex 5 and attain at least the minimum number of points required for the relevant hotel category: Provided further that the full number of points indicated in the fifth

(5)column of the table in Part 1 shall be awarded only where a requirement is fully satisfied: Provided further that no points shall be awarded in respect of requirements that are only partially fulfilled: Provided further that a hotel may be awarded the designation "Superior" in addition to its basic classification if it attains the additional threshold of points as specified in Part 1 of the First Schedule of Annex 5; (

1. i)compliance with the operational requirements established in Part 2 of the First Schedule of Annex 5; (
2. j)compliance with the hotel spatial requirements specified in Part 3 of the First Schedule of Annex 5. 3. Any person operating a hotel licence shall ensure that, within the timeframe as determined by the Authority from the date of issue of the licence, the property attains Eco Certification, in accordance with criteria established or recognised by the Authority. Eco Certification. 4. A licence for the operation of a hotel shall include the operation of catering establishments forming part of the same premises, provided that they are operated by the same management of the hotel and subject to such conditions as the Authority considers appropriate. Catering establishments. 16 [ S.L. 409.24] TOURISM ACCOMMODATION CATEGORY B: Tourist villages Requirement for a licence. 1. A person shall not operate a tourist village unless a licence has been issued by the Authority in accordance with the requirements established in these regulations. Essential criteria for a licence. 2. A licence to operate a tourist village shall be issued by the Authority only upon the satisfaction of all the following essential criteria: (
3. a)submission of complete and accurate information regarding the licensee, and where applicable, the designated operator; (
4. b)a valid development permission; (
5. c)certification by an architect that the premises are in conformity with the approved development planning permission; (
6. d)certification issued by the relevant competent authorities confirming compliance, as applicable; (
7. e)submission of valid proof of insurance; (
8. f)fulfilment of any other requirements as may be expressly established by the Authority; (
9. g)evidence to demonstrate that the Tourism Policy Compliance Certificate was issued pursuant to an application submitted to the Authority in accordance with these regulations, and only after the applicant had fully satisfied all of the requirements; (
10. h)compliance with the classification established in the Second Schedule of Annex 5. criteria Eco Certification. 3. Any person operating a tourist village shall ensure that, within the timeframe determined by the Authority from the date of issue of the licence, the property attains Eco Certification, in accordance with criteria established or recognised by the Authority. Catering establishments. 4. A licence for the operation of a tourist village shall include the operation of catering establishments forming part of the said premises, provided that they are operated by the same management of the hotel and subject to such conditions that the Authority considers appropriate. TOURISM ACCOMMODATION [ S.L. 409.24] 17 CATEGORY C: Guest houses 1. A person shall not operate a guest house unless a license has been duly issued by the Authority in accordance with the provisions of these regulations. Requirement for a licence. 2. A licence to operate a guest house shall be issued by the Authority only upon satisfaction of all the following essential criteria: Application for a licence. (
11. a)submission of complete and accurate information regarding the licensee, and where applicable, the designated operator; (
12. b)a valid development permission; (
13. c)certification by an architect that the premises are in conformity with the approved development planning permission; (
14. d)certification issued by the relevant competent authorities confirming compliance, as applicable; (
15. e)submission of valid proof of insurance; (
16. f)fulfilment of any other requirements as may be established by the Authority; (
17. g)evidence to demonstrate that the Tourism Policy Compliance Certificate was issued pursuant to an application submitted to the Authority in accordance with these regulations, and only after the applicant has fully satisfied all of the requirements; (
18. h)compliance with the classification established in Third Schedule of Annex 5. criteria 3. Any person operating a guest house licence shall ensure that within nine

(9)months from the date of issue of the licence, the property attains Eco Certification in accordance with criteria established or recognised by the Authority. Eco Certification. 4. Where catering establishments are provided and permitted, they shall be subject to a separate licence in accordance with the applicable law. Catering establishments. CATEGORY D: Hostels 18 [ S.L. 409.24] TOURISM ACCOMMODATION Requirement for a licence. 1. A person shall not operate a hostel unless a licence has been duly issued by the Authority in accordance with the provisions of these regulations. Application for a licence. 2. A licence to operate a hostel shall be issued by the Authority only upon the satisfaction of all the following essential criteria: (

1. a)submission of complete and accurate information regarding the licensee, and where applicable, the designated operator; (
2. b)a valid development permission; (
3. c)certification by an architect that the premises are in conformity with the approved development planning permission; (
4. d)certification issued by the relevant competent authorities confirming compliance, as applicable; (
5. e)submission of valid proof of insurance; (
6. f)fulfilment of any other requirements as may be established by the Authority; (
7. g)evidence to demonstrate that the Tourism Policy Compliance Certificate was issued pursuant to an application submitted to the Authority in accordance with these regulations, and only after the applicant has fully satisfied all of the requirements; (
8. h)compliance with the classification established in the Fourth Schedule of Annex 5. criteria Eco Certification. 3. Any person operating a hostel licence shall ensure that within nine

(9)months from the date of issue of the licence, the property attains Eco Certification, in accordance with criteria established or recognised by the Authority. Catering establishments.

1. Where catering establishments are provided and permitted, they shall be subject to a separate licence in accordance with the applicable law. ANNEX 3 – SPECIAL LABELS Assignment of special labels.
2. The Authority may assign a special label to a hotel, tourist village, guest house, or other form of tourism accommodation as determined by the Authority from time to time, where in the opinion of the Authority such label accurately reflects the unique characteristics of the establishment, in accordance with the criteria TOURISM ACCOMMODATION [ S.L. 409.24] 19 established in the Fifth Schedule to Annex
4. A licensee who has been assigned a special label shall be obliged to display and reference the label, in the format and manner prescribed by the Authority, in all advertising, marketing, and promotional material related to the establishment.
5. The validity of each special label shall be determined by the Authority in accordance with the specifications applicable to such label as established in the Fifth Schedule to Annex 5: Provided that any licensee intending to renew a special label without interruption shall submit a renewal application to the Authority not less than two

(2)months prior to the expiry of its validity period.

1. The Authority may withdraw any special label previously granted if, following an investigation by the Authority, it is determined that the establishment no longer meets the criteria or description associated with such label. ANNEX 4 - RENTED ACCOMMODATION CATEGORY E: SHORT-LET RENTED ACCOMMODATION
2. A person shall not operate short let rented accommodation for tourists unless a licence has been duly issued by the Authority in accordance with the provisions of these regulations. Requirement for a licence.
3. A licence to operate short let rented accommodation under this category shall be issued by the Authority under the following types: studio, apartment, house, villa, farmhouse only upon the applicant’s full satisfaction of all the following essential criteria: Application for a licence. (a) submission of complete and accurate information regarding the licensee and operator; (b) possession of a valid development permission; (c) certification that the premises are in conformity with the approved development planning permission; (d) submission of valid proof of insurance covering also the common parts, where applicable; (e) compliance with the classification criteria as established in the Sixth Schedule to Annex 5; (f) the identification of a designated natural person 20 [ S.L. 409.24] TOURISM ACCOMMODATION who shall be available on a twenty-four

(24)hour basis to receive complaints and to address any problems that can arise in connection with the licensed activity: Provided that the name, surname, and contact number of the said responsible person shall be kept updated at all times. (g) fulfilment of the following additional conditions: i. licences shall be issued only to the proprietor in title of the property, who shall declare whether the property shall be operated directly, by means of a sub-contract, or otherwise by third parties: Provided that for the purposes of this provision, "proprietor in title" means the owner in title and includes any agent or other person mandated by the owner to carry out the activity, any lessee, emphyteuta, or usufructuary, and in the case of a legal person, any director acting on its behalf; ii. upon issuance of the licence, the licensee shall notify the residential block administrator in writing if the property forms part of a condominium and submit a copy of such notification to the Authority; iii. properties which, in the reasonable opinion of the Authority, have not been finished to a high standard shall not be eligible for consideration; iv. occupancy shall be limited to two

(2)persons per bedroom as approved by the Planning Authority and the total number of occupants, shall not exceed ten

(10)persons per unit unless such unit has an independent access from a road, in which case the said ten

(10)persons limit shall not apply; v. properties or portions thereof located underground or at basement level shall not be approved if bedrooms are situated therein; vi. all licence applications and renewals shall be accompanied by a waste collection management plan; vii. licences shall not permit individual bookings exceeding ninety

(90)consecutive days; viii. the Authority may, establish licensing criteria applicable to specific localities, and may vary TOURISM ACCOMMODATION [ S.L. 409.24] 21 such criteria from one locality to another, where this is justified by objective considerations including locality characteristics, environmental factors, or tourism management needs. Any such criteria and variations shall form part of these regulations and shall be published in the Gazette and on the website of the Authority; ix. any additional conditions arising from byelaws enacted by the local council of the particular locality, in accordance with the provisions of the Local Government Act (Cap. 363.). 3.

(1)Any person found to be operating a short-let rented accommodation without a valid licence issued by the Authority shall be disqualified from applying for such a licence for a period of three

(3)years, without prejudice to the application of any other penalties prescribed by law. Special enforcement.

(2)For the same period of disqualification referred to in subitem

(1), and running concurrently therewith, the dwelling in respect of which the unlicensed operation occurred shall be ineligible for the issue of any short-let rental licence. The Authority shall refuse any application relating to such dwelling during such period, whether made by the same person or by any other person.

(3)The Authority may suspend or withdraw a licence, whether temporarily or permanently, in the event of breaches of regulations relating to noise, waste management, health, or other related criteria, as established by final decisions of a competent court having res judicata effect, or by enforcement notices issued by other competent authorities that are no longer subject to appeal or review. CATEGORY F: RESIDENT HOST ACCOMMODATION 1. A person shall not operate as a resident host accommodation unless a licence has been duly issued by the Authority in accordance with the provisions of these regulations. Requirement for a licence. 2. A licence to operate rental accommodation under this category shall be issued by the Authority only where the applicant has fully satisfied all of the following essential criteria: Application for a licence. (

1. a)submission of complete and accurate information regarding the applicant being the resident; (
2. b)possession of a valid development permission; (
3. c)certification that the premises are in conformity with the approved development planning permission; 22 [ S.L. 409.24] TOURISM ACCOMMODATION (
4. d)submission of valid proof of insurance; (
5. e)compliance with the classification established in the Seventh Schedule of Annex 5; (
6. f)criteria fulfilment of the following additional conditions: (
7. i)the applicant and all members of the applicant’s household, who reside in the property during the period in which it is used to accommodate guests, shall be of good character and deemed fit to accommodate guests within their residence;  Cap. 77. (
8. ii)the applicant shall submit a valid conduct certificate issued in accordance with the Conduct Certificates Ordinance; (iii) the applicant shall declare that neither he nor any resident of the applicant’s household has been sentenced by a competent court for drug-related offences or of crimes affecting the dignity of persons; (
9. iv)the applicant shall authorise the Authority to access the police records of the applicant and any member of the applicant’s household;and (
10. v)the premises intended for guest accommodation shall constitute the applicant’s primary and, or current residence and shall not be already licensed for use as tourism accommodation. (
11. g)the application shall be accompanied by the following documentation: i. a detailed description of the rooms intended for guest accommodation, including dimensions and the number of beds; and ii. a description and dimensions of the bathrooms to be made available for guest use. (
12. h)the number of guest rooms shall not exceed four

(4), and the total number of guests accommodated at any one time shall not exceed four

(4): (

1. i)bedrooms shall not be located in basement or underground levels: Provided that the Authority may approve a lower number of rooms or beds where, in its opinion, the premises are not suitable to accommodate the maximum number of guests TOURISM ACCOMMODATION [ S.L. 409.24] concurrently with the members of the household. (
2. j)the licensee shall not use any room for guest accommodation other than those clearly identified in the approved layout plan submitted with the application; (
3. k)where the applicant intends to provide accommodation to guests registered with a school licensed under the Education Act or any other educational institution:    Cap. 605. (
4. i)the applicant shall submit documented evidence of a formal allocation agreement with a licensed school or educational institution; (
5. ii)the applicant shall provide an attestation by the licensed school or educational institution as possessing a good command of the English language; and (iii) a declaration confirming that the accommodation complies with the applicable standards shall be jointly signed by the applicant and a representative of the licensed school or educational institution. 3.

(1)Travel operators, schools, or other persons entrusted with the arrangement of guest accommodation shall ensure that: Operations. (

1. a)guests are accommodated only with resident hosts duly licensed in accordance with these regulations; and (
2. b)where the guest is following a course of studies, the resident host is formally contracted with the relevant school or educational institution.

(2)Where the resident host accommodates minors, the licensee shall be bound to exercise a heightened duty of care and shall: (

1. a)ensure continuous access to the premises for regulatory or welfare inspections; and (
2. b)provide age-appropriate meals and a household environment conducive to the well-being of minors.

(3)No representative of a licensed school or educational institution shall provide false or misleading information to the Authority regarding the applicant or the property;

(4)The provisions of Part B, "Non-Academic Services" of the English Language Teaching Council Regulations shall apply  S.L. 605.05. 23 24 [ S.L. 409.24] TOURISM ACCOMMODATION mutatis mutandis to any person or legal person assigning guests to resident hosts;

(5)A licensee who operates under item 1(b) may use the term "host family" for marketing purposes. Special enforcement. 4.

(1)Authorised representatives of licensed schools, educational institutions, or the Authority may carry out inspections of the premises of any resident host with whom they are formally contracted, for the purpose of verifying compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

(2)A person holding a resident host licence shall not obstruct or prevent such authorised representatives from conducting interviews or random inspections of the premises at reasonable times.       S.L. 605.05.

(3)The Authority may suspend or withdraw a resident host licence in accordance with article 46 of the Act, and may also in the case of licences allowing the hosting guests in terms of item 3

(1)(b), act upon recommendations and, or request of the English Language Teaching Council established under the English Language Teaching Council Regulations. ANNEX 5 - SCHEDULES First Schedule Part 1 Classification Standards and Criteria for Hotels Standards and Criteria The following standards are applicable to all hotel categories. The letter "M" in the following Schedules denotes that the requirement is Mandatory. Criteria under a grey bar (Column 4) are interconnected and points are awarded only for a single criterion. Area No. Criterion Points I. General Hotel Info 1 Cleanliness and hygiene are prerequisites considered as basic conditions in all categories. - M M M M Proper upkeep and maintenance 2 All furniture, furnishings, fittings and equipment as well as the entire internal and external hotel infrastructure are fully functional and kept in faultless condition. - M M M M Overall impression 3 The overall impression of the hotel is sufficient for requirements. - high3 highest4 4 Ambience – Harmonious/pleasant atmosphere in public areas 3 M M M M M M Cleanliness / Hygiene medium1 advanced2 (light, smell, music, colour, etc.) Staff 5 Services are provided by competent and identifiable staff. - 6 Bilingual staff (front liners) 3 7 Swift identification of the languages spoken by hotel staff 3 M (via indicators like flag pins, etc.) Car Park 8 Private parking directly at the hotel 3 9 Drop-off zone for buses directly at the hotel 3 1 The overall impression of the hotel in terms of materials meets medium requirements. Furnishing and equipment are maintained, harmonized and functional. 2 The overall impression of the hotel in terms of materials meets advanced requirements. Furnishing and equipment are consistent in form and colour and ensure good comfort. 3 The overall impression of the hotel in terms of materials meets high requirements. Furnishing and equipment are consistent in form and colour, are of high quality and ensure high level of comfort. 4 The overall impression of the hotel in terms materials meets the highest requirements. Furnishing and equipment are consistent in form and colour, luxurious and ensure the highest level of comfort. Area No. Criterion Points 10 Garage 5 11 Charging station for electric cars 10 12 Dedicated charging station for electric bicycles or other types of electric transport vehicles 3 13 Secure bicycle storage 3 14 Minimum 50% of the rooms with balcony or terrace 5 15 Lift 5 10 Facilities for disabled 16 persons6 Barrier-free accessibility Wheelchair or assistance 5 17 Barrier-free accessibility Electronic wheelchair 10 18 Barrier-free accessibility Blind or visually impaired 5 19 Barrier-free accessibility Deaf or hearing impaired 5 20 Designated (designed and signalled) area or desk securing privacy 1 21 Separate and designated reception area or desk securing privacy 3 22 Lounge suite7 in the reception area 5 23 Lobby9 with seats and beverage service 7 Miscellaneous M M M M M M M M M M II. Reception and Services Reception area 24 25 5 6 7 8 9 Reception hall9 with several seats and beverage service 24-hour guest assistance available digitally or by phone M M 10 1 M 26 8 hours8 of physical availability9 in the hotel OR 24-hour self-check-in and -out service 5 M 27 10 hours10 of physical availability11 in the hotel OR 10 M M For hotels with more than three floors (incl. ground floor). According to national regulations. Criteria 22 to 24 differ in size and sentience interpretation (from small to big, from just a seating corner to a representative hall). Core opening hours must be covered and indicated on the website / booking confirmation. Responsible person is on site and in close walking proximity. Area No. Criterion Points 8 hours10 of physical availability11 in the hotel, additionally, 24-hour self-check-in and out service 28 14 hours staffed10 reception, 24 hours physically available on request 15 29 24 hours staffed12 reception 20 30 Self-check-in facility/service 1 31 Self-check-out facility/service 1 32 Valet parking service 10 33 Doorman 15 34 Concierge / Guest relation manager 35 Bell boy 36 Luggage service on demand 5 37 Luggage service 10 38 Secure left-luggage service for guests 5 39 Cleaning of rooms / change of laundry Laundry and ironing service 10 11 (separate personnel) (separate personnel) Business centre M M 15 M 15 M M M M M M (temporary office incl. computer, printer and photocopy machine and available staff) 5 40 Daily room cleaning11 1 M M M M 41 Change of towels on demand 1 M M M M 42 Change of bed linen at least once a week13 1 M M M M 43 Additional change of bed linen on demand 3 M M 44 Ironing service 3 45 Laundry and ironing service 46 Payment (separate personnel) M (return within 1 hour) (return as agreed; laundry bag provided) Chemical cleaning / dry cleaning (delivery 1 before 9 a.m., return as agreed – weekend excluded, laundry bag provided) 5 47 Washing machine 3 48 Cashless payment 1 Responsible person is present in the reception area. With the option of opting out. M M M M M M M M Area Miscellaneous No. Criterion Points 49 Umbrella at the reception or in the room 3 50 Up-to-date media in the room (printed or digital)12 3 51 Sewing kit on demand 1 52 Sewing service 3 53 Shoe polishing machine in the hotel or shoe polishing kit on demand 3 54 Shoe polishing service 5 M 55 Shuttle or limousine service 5 M 56 Offer of sanitary products on demand (at least toothbrush, toothpaste, shaving kit, bath / shower gel) 1 57 Personalised welcome on arrival for every guest with e.g. flowers or a gift token in the room 5 58 Accompanying the guest to the room on arrival 5 59 Turndown service13 in the evening as an additional room check 7 60 Size of rooms (incl. bathroom) ≥ 14m2 14 10 61 Size of rooms (incl. bathroom) ≥ 18m2 16 15 62 Size of rooms (incl. bathroom) ≥ 22m2 16 25 63 Size of rooms (incl. bathroom) ≥ 30m2 16 30 64 Number of suites15 65 Bed system with a well-kept mattress of at least 13 cm 1 66 Flexible bed system with a well-kept mattress with an overall height of at least 18 cm 5 M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M III. Rooms General Room Info Sleeping comfort 12 13 14 15 3 per suite, max. 9 M M M M Newspapers, smart TV, tablets etc. Also called “Second service”. Change of towels, removal of bedspread, emptying of waste paper basket, etc. If the hotel has a limited number of rooms (max.15 %) that are below this size, the guest must be informed about this fact before the accommodation contract is made. No “Junior suites”. Suites consist of at least two separate rooms, one of which is furnished as a bedroom and one as a living room. The rooms do not need to be connected by a door; an opening is sufficient. A holiday flat in a dependence, apartments or studios in independent building/s cannot be considered a suite. Suites must be situated within the hotel building to ensure that guests can fully use the hotel services. M Area Mattress width16 Mattress length Miscellaneous 16 17 18 19 20 No. Criterion Points 67 Flexible bed system with a well-kept mattress with an overall height of at least 22 cm 7 68 Flexible bed system with a well-kept mattress with an overall height of at least 25 cm 10 69.1 Single beds with mattresses with min. width of 0.80m17 1 69.2 Single beds with mattresses with min. width of 0.90m19 5 69.3 Single beds with mattresses with min. width of 1.00m19 10 69.4 Single beds with mattresses with min. width of 1.20m19 15 70.1 Double beds with mattresses with min. width of 1.40m19 1 70.2 Double beds with mattresses with min. width of 1.60m19 5 70.3 Double beds with mattresses with min. width of 1.80m19 10 70.4 Double beds with mattresses with min. width of 2.00m19 15 71.1 Beds with mattresses with min. length of 1.90m 1 71.2 Beds with mattresses with min. length of 2.00m 5 71.3 Beds with mattresses with min. length of 2.10m 10 71.4 Beds with mattresses with min. length of 2.20m 15 72 Baby cot on demand 1 73 Hygienic covers for mattresses18 10 74 Annual laundry of mattress cover and thorough cleaning of mattresses19 15 75 Allergy-friendly bed linen and bed inlets available on demand20 3 M M M M M M If a hotel has only single rooms or only double rooms, the number of points for the bed width will be doubled. At the time of booking, the guest must be informed, if there are two single beds in the room instead of a double bed or if a single bed is booked as a double bed. If the hotel has a limited number of beds (max.15 %) that are below this width, the guest must be informed about this fact before the accommodation is booked and confirmed. A "Molleton”- or similar fabric (with elasticated corners) washed in high temperature once a month in combination with a removable mattress cover washed once a year (if feasible) OR encasings washed once a month are accepted. An encasing is a cotton or synthetic bedcover that is (chemo-thermally) washable, breathable, free from mites and mite excrements and open at the bottom side. This criterion is fulfilled, if there is no residual moisture, mites are exterminated and there is no risk of reoccurrence. Washing the mattress cover, which is usually removable with a zip, is preferable to any form of vacuuming or steaming. The mattress core should be professionally washed every five years. Allergy-friendly should not be confused with allergy-free. Allergic pillows, blankets and bed linen should be supported by a certificate. The inlays and covers of the bed linen should also be free from feathers and/or down. M Area No. Criterion Points 76 Well-kept blanket 1 77 Additional blanket on demand 1 78 Well-kept pillow 1 79 Hygienic covers for pillows21 7 80 Annual pillow cleaning22 1 81 Additional usable, non-decorative pillow on demand 1 82 Two usable, non-decorative pillows per person 5 83 Pillow menu with a choice of different types 5 84 Possibility to darken the room 1 85 Possibility to completely darken the room (e.g. curtain) M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M 5 M (e.g. shutter or blackout curtain) Room equipment 21 22 23 24 86 Sheer curtain/screen/blinds or equivalent 3 87 Wake-up service 1 88 Adequate clothes storage (open or with doors) with a sufficient number of hangers23 1 89 Linen shelves or drawers 1 90 Sufficient number of hangers of different types 3 91 Separate coat hook 1 M 92 1 seating facility 3 M 93 1 seating facility per person 5 94 1 comfortable seating facility (upholstered chair/armchair/couch) with side table/tray24 10 95 1 additional comfortable upholstered chair or double sofa in double rooms or suites 10 96 Table, desktop, or similar workstation 1 If encasings are used, they should be breathable and washed once a month. The annual replacement of pillows is also accepted, provided this is appropriate. Simple wired hangers do not fulfil this criterion. One

(1)comfortable seating facility is substituting the seating facility for one person (No. 93). M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M Area Safekeeping Noise control / air conditioning 25 26 No. Criterion Points 97 Table, desktop, or similar workstation with an unencumbered working space, access to power socket and adequate lighting25 5 98 Table, desktop, or similar workstation with an unencumbered min. working space of 0.6 m2, access to power socket and adequate lighting27 10 99 Bedside table/tray 1 100 Accessible power socket in the room27 1 101 Additional accessible power socket next to the table/desk or desk top27 3 102 Additional accessible power socket next to the bed27 3 103 Accessible power outlet in the room (e.g. USB-A or -C) 3 104 Identifiable, permanently useable power socket (live socket) 3 105 Central light switch for the entire room light 3 106 Bedside light switch for the entire room light 3 107 Night light 1 108 Adequate room lighting 1 109 Reading light next to the bed 3 110 Dressing (Full-length) mirror 111 M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M 1 M M M Adequate place or rack to put the luggage/suitcase 5 M M M 112 Wastepaper basket 1 M M M 113 Safekeeping facilities 1 114 Central safe M26 M28 M 115 Safe in the room 7 116 Adequate noise protection 7 117 Sound-absorbing doors or double doors (e.g. at the reception) (e.g. at the reception) (windows) 3 10 Power sockets must be available and not used by other electrical appliances. Or a safe in the room (see no. 115). M M M M Area Entertainment electronics Telecommunications Miscellaneous No. Criterion Points 118 Rooms with centrally adjustable air conditioning 7 119 Rooms with individually adjustable air conditioning 10 120 Air conditioning in public guest areas 10 121 Audio or multimedia entertainment27 5 122 Fixed electronic media in the bathroom 3 123 TV services with a monitor in a size appropriate for the room with a remote function 1 124 Additional TV services with a monitor in suites in a size appropriate for the room 3 125 International TV channels available 5 126 International power adapter plug, charging station (for multiple electronic devices) and/or different adapters on demand 1 127 Device for internal and external communication on demand with an instruction manual (printed or digital)28 5 128 Device for internal and external communication in the room with a bilingual instruction manual (printed or digital) 10 129 Wi-Fi internet access in the public areas and in the rooms 1 130 Printing option on demand 1 131 Guest directory (printed or digital)29 1 132 Bilingual guest directory (printed or digital) 5 133 Regional information material available (printed or digital) 1 134 Writing utensils and notepad 3 135 Correspondence folder 3 136 Trouser press 3 137 Iron or steamer and ironing board on demand or ironing room 1 (restaurant, lobby, entrance hall, breakfast room) M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M 27 Entertainment options may include radio reception, separate players or streaming services. 28 The guest must be informed about this offer during check-in; a display, etc. is accepted. 29 The guest directory includes at least the breakfast time, check-out time, and opening hours of hotel facilities. M Area No. General bathroom info 30 Criterion Points 138 Iron and ironing board in the room 3 139 Shoehorn in the room 1 140 Door viewer 3 141 Additional locking mechanism at the room’s door 5 142 Bathroom/Sanitary facilities ≥ 5m2 30 10 143 Bathroom/Sanitary facilities ≥ 7,5m2 32 15 144 100% of the rooms with shower/WC or bathtub/WC 1 145 100% of the rooms with shower/WC or bathtub/WC, and thereof 50% of the rooms with bathtub and separate shower cubicle 10 146 30% of the rooms with toilet (separate from bathroom) 5 147 30% of the rooms with shower toilet 5 148 Shower with a curtain or equivalent separations 1 149 Shower with screen or equivalent separations 5 150 Wash hand basin 1 151 Twin wash hand basin in double rooms and suites 5 152 Washable bathmat 1 153 Adequate lighting over the wash hand basin 1 154 Permanent or removable anti-slip appliance in shower and bathtub 1 155 Safety grab bar 3 156 Mirror 157 M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M 1 M M M M Accessible power socket near the mirror 1 M M M M 158 Vanity mirror 1 159 Adjustable vanity mirror 3 M M If the hotel has a limited number of bathrooms (max. 15%) that are below this size, the guest must be informed about this fact before the accommodation contract is made. Area No. Criterion Points 160 Illuminated vanity mirror 1 161 Towel rails or towel hooks 1 162 Heating option in the bathroom (e.g. heated towel rail) 5 163 Storage surface 1 164 Large storage surface 3 165 Toothbrush tumbler or holder 1 M 166 Body wash or shower gel 1 167 Shampoo31 1 168 Additional cosmetic and hygiene products 1 169 Facial tissues 3 170 Toilet paper in reserve 1 171 1 hand towel per person 172 M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M 1 M M M M 1 bath towel per person 1 M M M M 173 Bathrobe on demand 3 174 Bathrobe 5 175 Slippers on demand 1 176 Slippers 3 177 Hairdryer on demand 1 178 Hairdryer 3 179 Stool in the bathroom on demand 3 180 Waste bin 1 M M M M 181 Beverage offers in the hotel 1 M M M M M M M M M M M M IV. Food and Beverages Beverages 31 This criterion is considered as fulfilled, if the bath essence or shower gel is suitable as shampoo as well, and this is indicated (on bottle or dispenser). Area Bar Breakfast Food38 32 33 34 35 36 37 40 39 No. Criterion Points 182 Beverage offers in the room 3 183 Fridge in the room32 3 184 Minibar 5 185 Maxi bar or shop with 24-hour selfservice 3 186 12 hours beverages via room service34 10 187 24 hours beverages via room service 15 188 Electric kettle for tea / coffee together with accessories in the room 3 189 Coffee machine with accessories in the room 5 190 Serviced bar or lounge area36 7 191 Serviced bar or lounge area38 192 Breakfast area 1 M 193 Continental breakfast 3 M 194 Breakfast buffet or equivalent breakfast menu card37 5 195 Staffed breakfast buffet or equivalent breakfast menu card 10 196 Serviced breakfast buffet or equivalent breakfast menu card 15 M 197 Breakfast menu card via room service 5 M 198 Allergen-friendly products (gluten-free, lactose-free etc.) 1 199 Regional products39 5 200 12 hours food offer via room service36 10 201 24 hours food offer via room service 15 (with drinks and snacks) (open at least 5 days per week) (open 7 days per week) M M M M33 M M35 M M 10 M M M M M M M M M M M Or Minibar (see no. 184) Or Maxi bar (see no. 185) or 12 hours beverages via room service (see no. 186). Hours can be split according to core hours. Or Minibar (see no. 184) or Maxi bar (see no. 185). A beverage menu card must be available (printed or digital). Self-service offer with at least the same selection of products as the continental breakfast, plus an egg or an egg-plate and cereals. For a hotel that only serves breakfast (with special label “Bed and Breakfast"), criteria no. 200 and 202 do not apply, which is why the score to be achieved in each category is reduced by 20 points. A hotel with a “Bed and Breakfast” special label cannot obtain 5 stars. A significant share of regional products. M Area No. Criterion Points Restaurant 5 each, max. 10 203 Restaurant42 open 7 days per week 10 each, max. 20 204 Banquet options for at least 50 people42 1 205 Banquet options for at least 100 people44 3 206 Banquet options for at least 250 people44 5 207 Designated co-working spaces / group working rooms43 10 208 Conference room(s) of at least 100 m2, ceiling height of at least 2.75 m44 10 209 Conference service45 5 210 Daylight in the conference room and the possibility of darkening the room47, 46 1 211 Individually adjustable air conditioning of the conference rooms47 3 202 40, 41 M M M V. Event Facilities (MICE) Banquet options Conference rooms (separate department, dedicated staff) VI. Leisure Sport/Recreation 40 41 42 43 47 212 Adequate on-site recreational and/or leisure facilities (indoor or outdoor)48 (e.g. private garden, tennis court, beach or access to lake, golf course, ski room) 213 Rental of sports equipment 214 Gym49 with at least 4 different exercising machines (e.g. skis, boats, bicycles) (e.g. ergometer, dumb bell, machine for weight training, treadmill, rowing machine, stair master) 3 per facility, max. 9 3 5 Each of them with a different concept, choice of food and location. Opening days have to be indicated on the website. The restaurant area is not included. A co-working space/ group working room must have appropriate lighting (with artificial light 200lux), appropriate tables and chairs, WIFI and an adequate number of power outlets. 44 A conference room must have appropriate lighting (with artificial light 200lux), WIFI, a projector, a projection screen (appropriate to ceiling height and room size), a coat rack or locker and an adequate number of power sockets. 45 Acceptance only if criterion no. 208 is fulfilled. 46 Minimum criterion for every conference room. 47 Opening periods must be indicated on the website. 48 Facilities are part of the hotel premises and any charges for their use can be billed to the room. 49 The gym has a minimum size of 20m2. M Area Spa/Wellness49, 50 No. 215 Criterion Massage treatment cabins51 (e.g. full body massage, lymph drainage, Shiatsu, foot reflexology) Points 3 per cabin, max. 9 216 Separate relaxation room52 3 217 Whirlpool or equivalent 3 218 3 per sauna type53, Sauna max. 9 53 Children Miscellaneous 219 Beauty centre with at least 4 different kinds of treatment 220 Spa53 with at least 4 different kinds of treatment 221 Private spa cabin 5 222 Swimming pool (outdoor)54 or swimming pond55 10 223 Swimming pool (indoor)56 10 224 In-house childcare (for children younger than 3 years) for at least 3 hours on weekdays by skilled staff 10 225 In-house childcare (for children older than 3 years) for at least 3 hours on weekdays by skilled staff 10 226 Children’s area 3 227 Baby equipment on demand (e.g. highchair, food warming equipment, changing mat, baby monitor) 3 228 Central sanitary facilities for hotel guests 3 229 Host/animation programme or organised leisure and sports activities 5 (e.g. facial, manicure, pedicure, peeling and stress relaxation massage are offered) (e.g. bath, Kneipp, hydrotherapy, moor, hammam, steam bath) (playroom/ playground) 5 10 M M M M M VII. Quality and Online Activities 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 The spa area has to be directly accessible without having to cross the conference or the restaurant area. The cabins have a minimum size of 10m2. The relaxation room has a minimum size of 20m2. Sauna types: “hot/dry” (e.g. Finnish sauna), “warm/slightly humid” (e.g. Tepidarium), or “warm/heavily humid” (e.g. steam room). not applicable to 3-star hotels which were either operating with a licence originally issued by the Hotels and Catering Establishments Board or approved by the Authority prior to the issuance of a Tourism Compliance Certificate. A swimming pond is a man-made, standing body of water for swimming or bathing free of chemical water preparation. The indoor swimming pool is heated and has a minimum size of 40m2. (not applicable to 4-star hotels which were either operating with a licence originally issued by the Hotels and Catering Establishments Board or approved by the Authority prior to the issuance of a Tourism Compliance Certificate). Area No. Quality Systems Points 230 Systematic complaint management system57 1 231 Systematic analysis of guest reviews58 3 232 Quality controls by mystery guesting59 5 233 Quality management system according to ISO 9001:2015 or equivalent 15 234 Bilingual60 hotel own website with up-todate information including bed sizes and realistic pictures61, location of the hotel and information on public transport connections 1 235 Mobile responsive website or mobile application with a direct booking option 5 236 Website with guest reviews 3 237 Active invitation to departing/checkedout guests to write a review on a portal or on the website 5 238 Sustainability label / certificate62 within the upcoming EU Green Claims Directive (COM

(2023)166 final) 20 239 Indication of the carbon footprint of the hotel according to the Hotel Carbon Measurement Initiative (HCMI)63 10 Online Activities Miscellaneous Criterion M M M M M M M M M VIII. Minimum Points64 Hotels 180 270 410 610 Supplement "Superior" 65 270 410 610 710 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 A systematic complaint management system includes a structured complaint process, evaluation, and response. Active and systematic gathering and evaluation of guest opinions about the quality of the hotel services, analysis of weaknesses, and identification of areas that require improvement. For the Mystery guesting to be accepted the following aspects need to be fulfilled at least once during a classification period: by professional externals upon initiative and on the account of the hotel, analysed and documented. Hidden (internal) controls e.g. of the hotel chain or cooperation are accepted as equal. Automatic translation can be accepted. Pictures have to show at least an exterior view, the public area and a room of each category. National decision on recognised labels and certificates. https://sustainablehospitalityalliance.org/resource/hotel-carbon-measurement-initiative/ For a hotel that only serves breakfast (Hotel "Bed and Breakfast ") the number of points to be reached is lowered by 20 points in each category. A "Bed and Breakfast" hotel cannot obtain 5 stars. The accreditation "Superior" indicates excellent hotels having acquired considerable points beyond the threshold points of their category, but which do not comply with the minimum criteria of the next higher category. Such hotels usually offer a higher degree of service. "Superior" is accessible to all hotels including "Bed and Breakfast" Hotels. 16 First Schedule Part 2 Operational Requirements for hotels A Standards and Criteria The following standards are applicable and mandatory for all hotel categories. Area No. Criterion 1 The exterior of the hotel, including entrances, outdoor, car park areas and all areas managed by the hotel, shall be well maintained, clean, well-lighted and shall not pose any health and safety hazard to the guests, the employees and the public. 2 The interior of the hotel, including entrances, reception, public areas, toilets, rooms furniture, furnishings, linen, towelling and equipment, shall be well maintained, clean, and shall not pose any health and safety hazard to the guests, the employees and the public. 3 Emergency maintenance service to be available, on call, 24 hours a day. 4 Brand advertising on furniture, canopies and umbrellas in all areas of the hotel shall not be allowed. Exceptions may be permitted where the branding is part of a curated luxury partnership consistent with aesthetic standards, provided that it does not detract from the guest experience or the character of the premises. Price list 5 Rooms price list available at Reception. Staff 6 Uniformed front office staff with personal identification tag. 7 Staff in contact with guests to be well-groomed. 8 Staff shall be trained and skilled to maintain the standards of service established in these regulations. 9 Staff are to be provided with training on a regular basis. 10 Organised display of tours and information on visitor attractions including brochures. 11 Organised display of hotel information 12 First aid box and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) at Reception. 13 Emergency medical call system. Adaptors 14 Socket adaptors available on request. Public Areas 15 Corridors, staircases and other circulation areas to be free from any obstruction. I. General Hotel Information General Impression II. Reception & Services Information Medical 17 III. Rooms Beds 16 Bunk beds are not allowed. 17 Maximum number of additional beds in standard room is 2, provided that no more than two of the guests are under the age of 12 Terrace 18 Terrace furniture shall include at least 2 chairs and 1 table. Information 19 Detailed emergency escape plan clearly displayed in the room. 20 Information on any charges for services and use of facilities, including phone and internet, that may be levied to guests shall be clearly shown in the room. Signs 21 "Do not disturb" signs or similar. Water 22 Complimentary mineral water on arrival in room. 23 Cooking facilities with at least two fire rings or heating elements. 24 Forced ventilation or extraction close to the cooking area. 25 Oven and microwave. 26 Fridge with freezer. 27 Washbasin. 28 Adequate quantity of necessary cutlery, crockery and glassware. 29 Adequate quantity of necessary cooking utensils including can, wine and bottle openers. 30 Coffee or tea pot or machine. 31 Bread toaster. 32 Gas detection system if cooking facilities are run on gas. 33 Smoke detection system. 34 Natural light and ventilation in room. 35 1 dining table. 36 Chairs (1 per person). 37 2 armchairs or sofa. 38 Heating system. 39 Air conditioning with individual control available at all times. 40 Possibility to darken the room. 41 Black-out curtains. Self-catering Unit Kitchen Dining Area 18 IV. Gastronomy Restaurant (where available) Kitchen 42 Cutlery, crockery and glassware shall be in good condition and adequate to serve the maximum number of diners capable of being seated in the dining area. 43 Guest greeting and shown to table, presentation of menu to guest in 4- and 5-star hotels. 44 Cleaning products to be stored separately from food. 45 Kitchen to be kept clean, organised and in a good state. 46 Kitchen equipment to be kept in good functioning order. 47 Non-slip kitchen floor. 48 Extraction chamber in good and clean condition. 49 First Aid box adequately equipped. 50 All kitchen staff with uniform and head cap. 51 Dry products shall be stored in a ventilated area with natural or mechanical ventilation. V. Event Facilities Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events - MICE Facilities (where available) 52 Facilities to be in a good state and properly maintained. 53 Pool opening hours on display. VI. Leisure Swimming Pool (where available) 54 When pool is not attended by a responsible person, the telephone number and location of the immediate contact person shall be prominently displayed in the pool area. 55 Guests using the pool to be provided with adequate towelling in 4and 5-star hotels. 56 Brand advertising on furniture, canopies and umbrellas in the sun or pool terrace shall not be allowed. Exceptions may be permitted where the branding is part of a curated luxury partnership consistent with aesthetic standards, provided that it does not detract from the guest experience or the character of the premises. 57 Facilitated swimming pool access with ladders or stairs. 19 58 Depth markings clearly visible. 59 Diving prohibition signs prominently displayed where water depth is less than 150cm. 60 Life-ring buoyancy aids complete with rope, clearly visible, on-site and accessible. 61 Flooring around the pool is of non-slip material. 62 Swimming pool/s and other facilities to be in a good state. VII. Waste 63 Waste shall be managed in accordance with Waste Regulations (S.L. 549.63) prioritizing waste prevention and recycling. Segregation of waste at source is to be encouraged, coupled with proper signage and information. There shall be proper waste collection contracts in place with waste collectors registered with the Environment and Resources Authority. 20 First Schedule – Part 3 Spatial Requirements for Hotels A Standards and Criteria The letter "M" next to each standard or criterion denotes that it is mandatory. (A) Column A is applicable to new developments, re-developments, extensions or upgrading of hotels whose application for a Tourism P o l i c y Compliance Certificate was approved by the Authority after the commencement of the Tourism Accommodation Establishments Regulations (S.L. 409.04) unless otherwise stated in the specific criteria. S.L. 409.04 (B) Column B is applicable to hotels which were either operating with a licence or approved by the Authority prior to the commencement of the Tourism Accommodation Establishments Regulations (S.L. 409.04). Spatial Requirements for Hotels A A A A B B B B 2* 3* 4* 5* 2* 3* 4* 5* 1.0 Exterior or façade 1.1 The exterior of the hotel, including entrances, outdoor and car park areas, shall be well designed and planned, well-lighted and shall not pose any health and safety hazard to the guests, the employees and the public. M M M M M M M M 1.2 The hotel shall have its own, adequately planned, independent entrance. M M M M M M M M 1.3 A service entrance, suitably located for the reception of goods and waste management, shall be available separate from the guest entrance. M M M M M M 2.0 Site Layout 2.1 Minimum site frontage of hotel in Development Zone expressed in metres and with sufficient depth to allow for a proper layout of a hotel reflecting the classification proposed. (Corner plots are to be measured on one side.) (This criterion is applicable to applications submitted after the coming into force of these regulations.) NA 25 25 25 21 2.2 Proportion of building footprint to site area of hotel in an Outside Development Zone expressed as a percentage. (Allowable variation not to exceed 5%.) NA 30 30 25 2.3 Site area per room of hotel in an Outside Development Zone expressed in square metres. (Allowable variation not to exceed 5%.) NA 52 55 58 3.0 Landscaping 3.1 Hotels should offer as much landscaped areas as possible, particularly in entrances, internal courtyards and backyards. NA M M M 3.2 Proportion by percentage of site area of hotel in Outside Development Zone required to be landscaped. Allowable variation not to exceed 10%. NA 40 40 45 4.0 Corridors, staircases and other public areas 4.1 Approximate corridor width in metres. NA 1.5 1.6 1.8 4.2 Provision of lifts for properties having more than one floor. NA M M M 4.3 Provision of service lift. NA M M 5.0 Guest bedroom 5.1 The guest bedroom should be designed to provide quality and comfort, including adequate size, lighting, view, furniture, sound proofing, temperature, etc. NA M M M 5.1.1 Room area is measured as the net floor area of the rooms forming part of the unit including the corridor and bathroom but excluding wall thicknesses, service shafts and terraces, if provided. NA M M M 5.2 Minimum unit floor areas for hotels that are either: (

1. i)Resort-type Hotels and/or (
2. ii)Fully detached and/or (iii) Located within hotel grounds with landscaped areas, pools and other facilities and/or (
3. iv)Hotels in Outside Development Zone. 22 5.2.1 Standard double room of built hotel expressed in square metres. (Allowable variation for 3- and 4star is 5% and for 5-star is 10%) 17 21 28 35 5.2.2 Suite for 2 persons in hotel expressed in square metres. (Allowable variation for 3- and 4-star is 5% and for 5-star is 10%) 26 32 42 52 5.2.3 Self-catering units (apartments) for 2 persons in hotel expressed in square metres. (Allowable variation for 3- and 4-star is 5% and for 5-star is 10%) 21 28 35 42 5.2.4 Standard single room expressed in square metres. 5.3 Minimum unit floor areas for hotels that are Citytype Hotels that are not fully-detached and built within an urban setting and do not qualify under any type of hotel in sub-item 5.2 or in the case of extensions in hotels which were operating with a licence and where structural limitations do not permit the room-sizes mentioned in sub-item 5.2.1. 5.3.1 Standard double room of built hotel expressed in square metres. (Allowable variation for 3- and 4star is 5% and for 5-star is 10%) NA 18 22 30 5.3.2 Suite for 2 persons in hotel expressed in square metres. (Allowable variation for 3- and 4-star is 5% and for 5-star is 10%) NA 27 33 45 5.3.3 Self-catering units (apartments) for 2 persons in hotel expressed in square metres. (Allowable variation for 3- and 4-star is 5% and for 5-star is 10%) NA 25 29 37 5.4 Availability of suites NA 5.5 Additional persons in units (standard bedrooms, suites and self-catering units) 5.5.1 Maximum number of persons in one room NA 4 4 4 5.5.2 Additional size of bedroom for each added person in all cases, expressed in square metres. NA 4 4 4 5.5.3 If a total of more than 6 persons are accommodated, an additional bathroom shall also be provided. NA M M M 5.6 Minimum internal clear room width of 2 person unit and above, expressed in metres. (Allowable variation 5%) NA 3.25 3.25 3.25 5.7 Visual outlook from accommodation units 5.7.1 Rooms with open views in a hotel within the Development Zone, expressed as a percentage of total number of units. (Allowable variation 5%) NA 60 75 100 5.7.2 Rooms with open views in a hotel within the Outside Development Zone, expressed as a percentage of total number of units. (Allowable variation 5%) NA 75 100 100 M 14 16 19 23 12 14 16 17 23 5.7.3 Rooms shall not be located in basement levels or overlook internal service shafts. Internal rooms overlooking internal courtyards and backyards should have at least 4 metres clear in front of the aperture of the room and adequate width. NA M M M 6.0 Swimming Pools, Areas and Sun Terraces 6.1 Provision of outdoor pool and sun terrace, unless otherwise exempted by a special label. NA M M M 6.2 Total water area of outdoor swimming pool shall be at least 0.6 square metres per hotel room or 35 square metres, whichever is the highest. NA M M M 6.3 Sun terrace with at least a seating capacity of approximately 10% in relation to the number of bedrooms. 6.4 Sun terrace with at least a seating capacity of approximately 50% in relation to the number of bedrooms. NA 6.5 Provision of indoor pool and deck unless otherwise exempted by a special label NA 7.0 Other Amenities 7.1 Hotel shall have a properly designed reception area with seating area, lounge and, or lobby in accordance with Part 1 of the First Schedule of Annex 5. NA 7.2 Serviced bar or lounge area in accordance with Part 1 of the First Schedule of Annex 5. NA 7.3 Breakfast area NA 7.4 Restaurant, unless otherwise exempted by a Special Label NA 7.5 Event Facilities – Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events (MICE) 7.5.1 Multi-purpose room, expressed in square metres. 7.5.2 Multi-purpose room, expressed in square metres: (
4. a)Hotels with maximum of 50 rooms (
5. b)M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M NA 50 50 Hotels with 51 - 200 rooms NA 100 100 (
6. c)Hotels with 201 or more rooms NA 150 150 7.6 Examples of other facilities: Conference facilities, designated co-working spaces, business centre, recreational facilities, gym, spa or wellness centre, library, family play areas, etc. M M 50 50 24 Second Schedule Tourist Village Standards A Standards and Criteria The letter "M" next to each standard or criterion denotes that it is mandatory. Ref Criterion Standard 1.0 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS 1.1 It conforms with the standard requirements for Hotels as laid down in the Parts 1, 2 and 3 of the First Schedule of Annex 5 and subject to additional standards as established under this Schedule. M 1.2 It is sited within a single and defined parcel of land and does not exceed a building height of three floors. M 1.3 Premises is fully detached from any other building. M 1.4 Premises offers sport, recreation and other outdoor facilities. M 2.0 ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS 2.1 Open-air swimming pool of at least 25m x 10m in surface measurement taking into consideration Pool Standards in Part 2 of the First Schedule of Annex 5. M 2.2 Mini market. M 2.3 Recreational day and night programmes. M 2.4 Two outdoor sports installations M 2.5 Open-air children playground M 25 Third Schedule Guest House Standards A Standards and Criteria The letter "M" next to each standard or criterion denotes that it is mandatory. Ref Criterion Standard 1.0 PUBLIC AREAS 1.1 Reception or Lounge Area 1.1.1 The Guest House shall have a Reception or Lounge area with seating, the size of which shall be proportionate with the size of the establishment. M 1.1.2 Reception or Lounge area to be supplied with a desk or counter to service guests. M 1.1.3 Reception or Lounge area with seating and information display facilities. M 1.1.4 Receptionist or responsible person on duty able to speak English and to attend to guest needs. M 1.1.5 Responsible person on site available at least from 07:00 to 19:00 hour daily. M 1.1.6 Responsible person accessible by phone or online directly with immediate access during all hours. M 1.1.7 Prominent display in Reception or Lounge area of reception opening times and name and availability of responsible person on site. M 1.1.8 Prominent display in Reception or Lounge area of 24-hour contact phone number or online service and name of responsible person. M 1.1.9 Prominent display in Reception or Lounge area of 24-hour emergency contact numbers for ambulance, fire, police and medical practitioner. M 1.1.10 Prominent display in Reception or Lounge area of location and availability of adequately equipped First Aid box. M 26 Ref Criterion Standard 1.1.11 Prominent display of price lists for rooms and services available at reception or online. M 1.1.12 Facility to make external calls. M 1.1.13 Local information on the destination and visitor attractions available. M 1.2 Corridors, passages, staircases and other common areas 1.2.1 Prominent display of directional signage to emergency exits, fire hydrants, First Aid box, bedroom, lifts, reception and other facilities. M 1.2.2 Effective ventilation system: natural or mechanical. M 1.2.3 Corridors and staircases to be free of any obstruction impeding rapid easy emergency access or exit. M 1.2.4 Corridor width to be not less than 1.2m. M 1.2.5 Appropriate lighting in all areas. Standard 1.2.6 is applicable to Guest Houses which were licensed after the coming into force of these regulations. 1.2.6 Passenger lift shall be provided for premises that are higher than two floors (Ground and First Floor) provided that the Authority may M exempt such requirement upon being provided reasonable and justifiable grounds due to heritage constraints. 1.3 General 1.3.1 Safe deposit system available at reception or room. M 1.3.2 Luggage keeping service. M 1.3.3 Adequately equipped First aid box. M 1.3.4 Staff to be properly dressed, clean and well-mannered at all times. M 1.3.5 Availability of cashless payment. M 27 Ref Criterion Standard 1.4 Public Toilet Facilities 1.4.1 A toilet in the public area shall be provided with a water closet, that is appropriately ventilated and with an anteroom that is also appropriately ventilated, if so, required by the Development Planning (Health and Sanitary) Regulations (S.L. 552.22) M 1.4.2 Wash hand basin with a continuous supply of cold and warm water. M 1.4.3 Soap Dispenser. M 1.4.4 Automatic hand dryer or disposable paper towels. M 1.4.5 Mirror with suitable lighting. M 1.4.6 Each water closet with an effective system of lighting and of natural or mechanical ventilation. M 1.4.7 Sanitary bin with lid in female toilets. M 1.4.8 Toilet brush for each water closet. M 1.4.9 Toilet roll holder with toilet paper and additional toilet paper roll. M 1.5 Breakfast Area 1.5.1 There shall be a Breakfast Room or Area that is appropriately sized. M 1.5.2 There shall be a kitchen or preparation area available to service the Breakfast Area. M 1.5.3 There shall be a proper storage area available to service the kitchen and Breakfast Area. M 1.5.4 There shall be Toilet facilities for guests using the Breakfast Area but not necessarily in the same area. Toilets in Public Area shall suffice. M 1.5.5 The breakfast service, available on a daily basis, shall at least include the following items - selection of cold and hot beverages, one bread product, one bakery product, a selection of cereals and a selection of jams, marmalades and other spreads. M 28 Ref Criterion Standard 1.5.6 Cutlery, crockery, glassware, linen and equipment shall be adequate to serve the maximum number of guests capable of being seated in the breakfast area and shall be clean and in good condition. M 1.5.7 All common facilities shall be kept clean, organised and in a good state of hygiene. The kitchen equipment is to be in good functioning order. M 2.0 GUEST BEDROOM 2.1 Room Spatial Standards Standards 2.1.1 to 2.1.4 are applicable to Guest Houses which were licensed between 2013 and the coming into force of these regulations. 2.1.1 Minimum floor area of a bedroom for 1 person shall not be less than 9 square metres - not including the bathroom if provided. M 2.1.2 Minimum floor area of a bedroom for 2 persons shall not be less than 13 square metres - not including the bathroom if provided. M 2.1.3 Additional floor area of 4 square metres of bedroom for each additional person in single bed. M 2.1.4 Minimum internal room width shall not be less than 3.25 metres. M Standards 2.1.5 to 2.1.9 are applicable to Guest Houses which were licensed after the coming into force of these regulations. 2.1.5 Minimum floor area of a bedroom with en-suite bathroom for 1 person shall not be less than 13 square metres. M 2.1.6 Minimum floor area of a bedroom with en-suite bathroom for 2 persons shall not be less than 17 square metres. M 2.1.7 Additional floor area of 4 square metres of bedroom for each additional person. M 2.1.8 Additional floor area of 5 square metres of bedroom if any kitchen facilities, in addition to tea or coffee facilities, are provided. M 2.1.9 Minimum internal room width shall not be less than 3.25 metres. M 29 Ref Criterion Standard 2.2 General 2.2.1 All rooms shall have a separate and independent entrance. M 2.2.2 All guestrooms shall be clearly numbered or named. M 2.2.3 There shall be no bedrooms located underground, below street level or in a basement. M 2.2.4 Window or balcony allowing natural light and ventilation in room and ensuring adequate outlook, excluding internal service shafts, and requiring at least 3m distance from the aperture and adequate width. M 2.2.5 Notwithstanding the room sizes, there shall be sufficient space to allow persons staying in room a good degree of comfort. M 2.2.6 Bunk beds are not allowed. M 2.2.7 Maximum number of persons allowed per room, taking into consideration the minimum room sizes: 4 M 2.2.8 Additional beds or sofa beds are not allowed anywhere in the room. M 2.3 Bed 2.3.1 Minimum bed size: 90cm x 190cm for single; 140cm x 190cm for double. M 2.3.2 Bed linen: 2 sheets and blanket with cover, or sheet and quilt with case cover, pillowcase. M 2.3.3 One pillow per person. M 2.3.4 Additional pillow per person on request. M 2.3.5 Extra blanket/quilt per person on request. M 2.3.6 Bed sheets changed at least once a week or on guest’s request or on guest checkout. M 2.3.7 Daily room cleaning with option to opt-out. M 30 Ref Criterion Standard 2.3.8 Daily change of towels on demand. 2.4 Furniture and Comfort 2.4.1 If any kitchen facilities provided, in addition to tea or coffee facilities, a small dining table with sufficient chairs, cutlery and crockery to occupants in the room are to be provided. (Note additional area required) M 2.4.2 Blackout curtain, or similar, completely excluding natural or external light. M 2.4.3 1 dressing table and one chair or armchair. M 2.4.4 At least one bedside table for every person with electrical socket. M 2.4.5 1 wastepaper basket. M 2.4.6 1 full length mirror. M 2.4.7 Adequate clothes storage (open or with doors) with a sufficient number of hangers (at least 5 per person) M 2.4.8 Effective heating system and fan ventilation system. M 2.4.9 Rooms with individually adjustable air-conditioning systems. M 2.4.10 Individual bedside reading light. M 2.5 Additional services 2.5.1 Facility to make internal and external calls from the bedroom. M 2.5.2 Directory of house services including instructions for obtaining emergency assistance. M 2.5.3 Wake-up call service or alarm clock available. M 2.5.4 "Do not disturb" sign or similar. M 2.5.5 Emergency exit plan clearly displayed in room. M M 31 Ref Criterion 3.0 BATHROOM FACILITIES 3.1 General Standard Standards 3.1.1 to 3.1.3 are applicable to Guest Houses which were licensed prior to the coming into force of these regulations. 3.1.1 1 bath or shower for a maximum of 6 persons. M 3.1.2 1 water closet for a maximum of 6 persons. M 3.1.3 Wash-hand basin supplied with liquid soap for a maximum of 6 persons. M Standard 3.1.4 is applicable to Guest Houses licensed after the coming into force of these regulations. 3.1.4 Bathroom (bath/shower, water closet and wash hand basin) in each bedroom. M 3.1.5 Continuous supply of cold and hot water. M 3.1.6 Toilet roll holder with toilet paper and additional toilet paper roll. M 3.1.7 Toilet brush for each water closet. M 3.1.8 Sanitary bin for each water closet. M 3.1.9 Effective system of lighting and of natural or mechanical ventilation. M 3.2 Bath or Shower 3.2.1 Bath or Shower M 3.2.2 Continuous supply of cold and warm water. M 3.2.3 Bath or shower facilities with curtain or similar. M 3.2.4 Bath or shower wall and floor covered with impervious material. M 3.2.5 Towels hanger and floor mat per bath or shower room or cubicle. M 32 Ref Criterion Standard 3.2.6 Shelving or facility for holding toiletries per bath or shower room or cubicle or wash-hand basin. M 3.2.7 1 clothes hook per bath or shower room or cubicle. M 3.2.8 Mirror over and per wash-hand basin. M 3.2.9 Hairdryer available in room. M 3.2.10 Effective system of lighting and of natural or mechanical ventilation. M 4.0 MAINTENANCE AND CLEANING 4.1 Good state of the façade, exterior and interior walls, floors and ceiling. M 4.2 Good state and proper lighting of the façade and of other grounds managed by the operator. M 4.3 Good state of furniture, soft furnishings, apertures, linen and towelling. M 4.4 Installations, fittings, ventilation, air-conditioning system and other equipment in good operating conditions. M 4.5 All light sockets and other electrical installations to be properly maintained and functional. M 4.6 Maintenance service to be provided 12 hours a day. M 4.7 Rooms, bathrooms, toilets, public and service areas, corridors and passageways are to be kept clean at all times. M 4.8 Waste shall be managed in accordance with Waste Regulations (S.L.549.63) prioritizing waste prevention and recycling. Segregation of waste at source is to be encouraged, coupled with proper signage and information. There shall be proper waste collection contracts in place with waste collectors registered with the Environment and Resources Authority. M 5.0 MISCELLANEOUS 33 Ref Criterion Standard 5.1 The guest house shall be under the regular supervision of a person capable of operating the premises to the standards established in these regulations. M 5.2 The provision of restaurant, cafeteria, bar or similar catering facilities is not compulsory and, if provided, shall be subject to a separate licence as provided for in the Catering Establishments Regulations – (S.L.409.15) M 5.3 If facilities or services, not obligatory under this Schedule are available or provided, they are to be of good standard and well maintained. M 5.4 Brand advertising on furniture, canopies and umbrellas in all areas of the hotel shall not be allowed. Exceptions may be permitted where the branding is part of a curated luxury partnership consistent with aesthetic standards, provided that it does not detract from the guest experience or the character of the premises. M 34 Fourth Schedule Hostel Standards A Standards and Criteria The letter "M" next to each standard or criteria denotes that it is mandatory. No Criterion Standard 1.0 PUBLIC AREAS 1.1 Reception or Lounge Area 1.1.1 The Hostel shall have a Reception or Lounge area with seating, the size of which shall be commensurate with the size of the establishment. M 1.1.2 Reception or Lounge area to be supplied with a desk or counter to service guests. M 1.1.3 Reception or Lounge area with seating and information display facilities. M 1.1.4 Receptionist or responsible person on duty able to speak English and to attend to guest needs. M 1.1.5 Responsible person on site available at least for six hours daily. M 1.1.6 Responsible person accessible by phone or online directly with immediate access during all hours. M 1.1.7 Prominent display in Reception or Lounge area of reception opening times and name and availability of responsible person on site. M 1.1.8 Prominent display in Reception or Lounge area of 24-hour contact phone number or online service and name of responsible person. M 1.1.9 Prominent display in Reception or Lounge area of 24-hour emergency contact numbers for ambulance, fire, police and medical practitioner. M 1.1.10 Prominent display in Reception or Lounge area of location and availability of adequately equipped First Aid box. M 1.1.11 Prominent display of price lists for rooms and services available at reception or online. M 35 No Criterion Standard 1.1.12 Facility to make external calls M 1.1.13 Local information on the destination and visitor attractions available. M 1.2 Corridors, passages, staircases and other common areas. 1.2.1 Prominent display of directional signage to emergency exits, fire hydrants, First Aid box, bedroom, lifts, reception and other facilities. M 1.2.2 Effective ventilation system: natural or mechanical. M 1.2.3 Corridors and staircases to be free of any obstruction impeding rapid easy emergency access or exit. M 1.2.4 Corridor width to be not less than 1.2m. M 1.2.5 Appropriate lighting in all areas. M Standard 1.2.6 is applicable to Hostels which were licensed after the coming into force of these regulations. 1.2.6 Passenger lift shall be provided for premises that are higher than two floors (Ground and First Floor) provided that the Authority may exempt M such requirement upon being provided reasonable and justifiable grounds due to heritage constraints. 1.3 General 1.3.1 Safe deposit system available at reception or room. M 1.3.2 Luggage keeping service. M 1.3.3 Adequately equipped First Aid box. M 1.3.4 Staff to be properly dressed, clean and well-mannered at all times. M 1.3.5 Availability of cashless payment. M 1.4 Public Toilet Facilities 36 No Criterion Standard 1.4.1 A toilet in the public area shall be provided with a water closet, that is appropriately ventilated and with an anteroom that is also appropriately ventilated, if so, required by the Development Planning (Health and Sanitary) Regulations (S.L. 552.22.). M 1.4.2 Wash hand basin with a continuous supply of cold and warm water. M 1.4.3 Soap dispenser. M 1.4.4 Automatic hand dryer or disposable paper towels M 1.4.5 Mirror with suitable lighting. M 1.4.6 Each water closet with an effective system of lighting and of natural or mechanical ventilation. M 1.4.7 Sanitary bin with lid in female toilets. M 1.4.8 Toilet brush for each water closet. M 1.4.9 Toilet roll holder with toilet paper and additional toilet paper roll. M 1.5 Common Facilities 1.5.1 There shall be a common lounge or relaxing area for use by guests. M 1.5.2 There shall be a common kitchen and dining facilities for guests to store, prepare and consume hot and cold meals and wash up. M 1.5.3 Common kitchen and dining facilities shall include food and beverage storage spaces, refrigeration, cooking or heating rings, oven or microwave, kitchen sink with continuous supply of cold and warm water, crockery and cooking utensils, cutlery, area with dining table or dining tops and seating. Facilities for washing up shall also be provided. M 1.5.4 The following minimum breakfast items shall be made available in the kitchen for guests: tea, coffee, milk, sugar, bread, butter and jam. M 1.5.5 All common facilities shall be kept clean, organised and in a good state of hygiene. The kitchen equipment is to be in good functioning order. M 37 No Criterion 2.0 HOSTEL BEDROOM 2.1 Room Spatial Standards Standard Standards 2.1.1 to 2.1.4 are applicable to hostels which were licensed by the Authority with effect from 1st January 2012 2.1.1 Minimum floor area of a bedroom for one person shall not be less than 7 square metres - not including the bathroom, if provided. M 2.1.2 Additional floor area of 3 square metres of bedroom for each additional person in single bed. M 2.1.3 Additional floor area of 2 square metres of bedroom for each additional person in bunk bed. M 2.1.4 Minimum internal room width shall not be less than 3.25 metres. M 2.2 General 2.2.1 All rooms shall have a separate and independent entrance. M 2.2.2 All guestrooms shall be clearly numbered or named. M 2.2.3 There shall be no bedrooms located underground, below street level or in a basement. M 2.2.4 Window or balcony allowing natural light and ventilation in room and ensuring adequate outlook, excluding internal service shafts, and requiring at least 3m distance from the aperture and with adequate width. M Standard 2.2.5 is applicable to hostels which were licensed after the coming into force of these regulations. 2.2.5 Notwithstanding the room sizes, the maximum number of persons allowed per room, taking into consideration the minimum room sizes shall not exceed 6. M 2.2.6 Notwithstanding the room sizes, there shall be sufficient space to allow persons staying in room a good degree of comfort. M 38 No Criterion Standard 2.3 Bed 2.3.1 Minimum bed size: 80 cm x 190cm for single; 135cm x 190cm for double. M 2.3.2 Bed linen: 2 sheets and blanket with cover, or sheet and quilt with case cover, pillowcase. M 2.3.3 1 pillow per person. M 2.3.4 Additional pillow per person on request. M 2.3.5 Extra blanket per person on request. M 2.3.6 Bed linen changed at least once a week or on guest's request or on guest checkout. M 2.3.7 Daily room cleaning with option to opt-out. M 2.3.8 Daily change of towels on demand. M 2.4 Furniture and Comfort 2.4.1 There shall be no kitchen facilities, except for tea or coffee making, directly located in the bedroom. M 2.4.2 Blackout curtain, or similar, completely excluding natural or external light. M 2.4.3 1 table or similar surface. M 2.4.4 At least one bedside table, surface or lockable container for personal effects for every person with electrical socket. M 2.4.5 1 wastepaper basket. M 2.4.6 1 full length mirror. M 2.4.7 Cupboard or locker of approximate size 900mm (
7. h)x 450mm (
8. w)x 600mm (
9. d)per person. Cupboard lockable in shared accommodation. M 2.4.8 Effective heating system and fan ventilation system. M 39 No Criterion Standard 2.4.9 Rooms with individually adjustable air-conditioning systems. M 2.4.10 Individual bedside reading light. M 2.5 Additional services 2.5.1 Facility to make internal and external calls, not necessarily from bedroom. M 2.5.2 Directory of house services including instructions for obtaining emergency assistance. M 2.5.3 Emergency exit plan clearly displayed in room. M 3.0 BATHROOM FACILITIES 3.1 General Standards 3.1.1 to 3.1.3 are applicable to Hostels which were licensed prior to the coming into force of these regulations. 3.1.1 1 bath or shower for a maximum of 8 persons. M 3.1.2 1 water closet for a maximum of 8 persons. M 3.1.3 Wash-hand basin supplied with liquid soap for a maximum of 8 persons. M Standard 3.1.4 is applicable to Hostels licensed after the coming into force of these regulations. 3.1.4 Bathroom facilities (bath or shower, water closet and wash hand basin) for each bedroom (en-suite or dedicated on same floor). M 3.1.5 Continuous supply of cold and hot water. M 3.1.6 Toilet roll holder with toilet paper and additional toilet paper roll. M 3.1.7 Toilet brush for each water closet. M 3.1.8 Sanitary bin with lid to each water closet. M 3.1.9 Effective system of lighting and of natural or mechanical ventilation. M 40 No Criterion Standard 3.2 Bath or Shower 3.2.1 Bath or Shower M 3.2.2 Continuous supply of cold and warm water. M 3.2.3 Bath or shower facilities with curtain or similar. M 3.2.4 Bath or shower wall and floor covered with impervious material. M 3.2.5 Towels hanger per bath or shower room or cubicle. M 3.2.6 Shelving or facility for holding toiletries per bath or shower room or cubicle or wash-hand basin. M 3.2.7 1 clothes hook per bath or shower room or cubicle. M 3.2.8 Mirror over and per wash-hand basin. M 3.2.9 Effective system of lighting and of natural or mechanical ventilation. M 4.0 MAINTENANCE AND CLEANING 4.1 Good state of the façade, exterior and interior walls, floors and ceiling. M 4.2 Good state and proper lighting of the façade and of other grounds managed by the hostel operator. M 4.3 Good state of furniture, soft furnishings, apertures, linen and towelling. M 4.4 Installations, fittings, ventilation, air-conditioning system and other equipment in good operating conditions. M 4.5 All light sockets and other electrical installations to be properly maintained and functional. M 4.6 Maintenance service to be provided 12 hours a day. M 4.7 Rooms, bathrooms, toilets, public and service areas, corridors and passageways are to be kept clean at all times. M 41 No Criterion Standard 4.8 Waste shall be managed in accordance with Waste Regulations (S.L. 549.63.) prioritizing waste prevention and recycling. Segregation of waste at source is to be encouraged, coupled with proper signage and information. There shall be proper waste collection contracts in place with waste collectors registered with the Environment and Resources Authority. 5.0 MISCELLANEOUS 5.1 The hostel shall be under the regular supervision of a person capable of operating the premises to the standards established in these regulations. M 5.2 The provision of restaurant, cafeteria, bar or similar catering facilities is not compulsory and, if provided, shall be subject to a separate licence as provided for in the Catering Establishments Regulations. (S.L. 409.15.). M 5.3 If facilities or services, not obligatory under this Schedule are available or provided, they are to be of good standard and well maintained. M 5.4 Brand advertising on furniture, canopies and umbrellas in all areas of the hotel shall not be allowed. Exceptions may be permitted where the branding is part of a curated luxury partnership consistent with aesthetic standards, provided that it does not detract from the guest experience or the character of the premises. M M 42 Fifth Schedule Special Labels Reference Category Special Labels – Contents Table SL-01 Bed and Breakfast Label SL-02 Heritage Label SL-03 Diffuso Label SL-04 Agro-Tourism Label SL-05 Spa & Wellness Label SL-06 Boutique & Luxury Boutique Label Part A SL-01 Bed and Breakfast Label Standards and Criteria The letter "M" next to each standard or criterion denotes that it is mandatory. 01 Bed and Breakfast Label 1.0 Applicability and Eligibility 1.1 This label is applicable to the following categories licensed by the Authority: 3-star and 4-star hotel M 43 1.2 This label is not applicable to resort-type hotels that are free-standing, fully detached and located within hotel grounds with landscaped areas, pools and other facilities and may be located close to the coast and, or in Outside Development Zone. M 2.0 Criteria 2.1 A Bed and Breakfast label is assigned under the condition that a breakfast room is available within the hotel and breakfast services are offered to the hotel’s guests. 3.0 Exemptions 3.1 The premises shall conform with the requirements of a hotel of its class as stipulated in these regulations, and shall have the following exemptions: M 3.1.1 The premises shall conform with the requirements of a 3- or 4-star hotel, as the case may be, in accordance with the First Schedule of Annex 5, provided that a 3 star hotel is exempt from providing a restaurant, restaurant services and of a swimming pool, while a 4-star hotel is exempt from providing a restaurant and restaurant services but has to provide both an external and indoor swimming pool. M 4.0 Promotion 4.1 The licensee and, or operator of a hotel with a Bed and Breakfast label shall ensure that the hotel is promoted only as a "3-star Bed and Breakfast" or a "4-star Bed and Breakfast" hotel. 5.0 Validity 5.1 This label shall be valid for an indeterminate period unless the licensee, or operator applies for its withdrawal. M M M 44 Part B SL-02 Heritage Label Standards and Criteria The letter "M" next to each standard or criterion denotes that it is mandatory. 02 Heritage Label 1.0 Applicability and Eligibility 1.1 This label is applicable to the following categories licensed by the Authority: M 3-star to 5-star Hotel Guest house 1.2 This label is not applicable to resort type hotels that are freestanding, fully detached and located within hotel grounds with landscaped areas, pools and other facilities and may be located close to the coast and, or in Outside Development Zone. M 2.0 Criteria 2.1 The premises shall be sited in a building having heritage or historical significance as authenticated in writing by a competent person with a minimum qualification of MQF Level 7 in the subject of architectural history or similar or an appointed person by the Superintendent of Cultural Heritage. M 2.2 It shall be the sole discretion of the Authority, following consultation with competent authorities or persons, to decide whether the building merits a heritage label. M 45 2.3 The Authority may refuse a building from being assigned a "Heritage" label if, notwithstanding its location or it is having heritage or historical significance, its internal or external features have been changed or altered to an extent which, in the opinion of the Authority, have changed significantly the character of the building. M 3.0 Exemptions 3.1 The premises shall conform with the requirements of a tourism accommodation establishment of its class as stipulated in these regulations, and shall have the following exemptions: M 3.1.1 The premises shall conform with the requirements of its category and class as per the First or Third Schedule of Annex 5, as the case may be. Provided that a hotel is exempt from Part 3 of the First Schedule of Annex 5, with the exception of Criterion 1.0 of the same Schedule. Provided further that in the case of hotels, room sizes shall not be less than twenty per cent (20%) than those established in the same criteria. M 3.1.2 Guest Houses eligible for heritage label shall be exempted from the maximum 20 room limit as per Annex 1, but in any case, the maximum number of rooms shall not exceed 30 rooms in total. M 4.0 Promotion 4.1 The licensee and, or operator of a hotel with a Heritage label shall ensure that the hotel is promoted only as a "3-star Heritage Hotel ", a "4-star Heritage Hotel" or a "5-star Heritage Hotel " or a "Heritage Guest House", as applicable. M 4.2 An appropriate plaque, showing the heritage/historical significance of the premises, shall be properly displayed in the hotel lobby or reception. M 5.0 Validity 5.1 This label shall be valid for an indeterminate period, unless the Authority deems that the building has been altered to the extent that the criteria in Section 2 are no longer satisfied. M 46 Part C SL-03 Diffuso Label Standards and Criteria The letter "M" next to each standard, or criteria denotes that it is mandatory. 03 Diffuso Label 1.0 Applicability and Eligibility 1.1 This label is applicable to the following categories licensed by the Authority: M 3-star to 5-star Hotel especially if with Heritage Label Guest House 1.2 This label is not applicable to resort type hotels that are free standing, fully detached and located within hotel grounds with landscaped areas, pools and other facilities and may be located close to the coast and, or in Outside Development Zone. M 2.0 Criteria 2.1 The Diffuso hotel or guest house is a collective accommodation establishment that is not located in a single block or defined parcel of land but converted out of various buildings located in one Urban Conservation Area within close proximity of the main building where the main facilities, including reception services shall be provided. M 2.2 All buildings forming part of the premises, including the accommodation units, are located in the same Urban Conservation Area, as indicated by the competent authority for Planning. M 47 2.3 Age, heritage or historic significance, if applicable, of the building/s which are to form part of the premises are to be certified accordingly by a competent person with a minimum qualification of MQF Level 7 in the subject of architectural history or similar. M 2.4 One of the buildings forming part of the premises is identified as the main central building of the premises. The main central building shall provide main facilities, including reception services as established in the applicable Schedules. M 2.5 All other buildings forming part of the premises, are not located further than two-hundred metres

(200m)walking distance from the main building referred to in criterion 2.4. These buildings shall either house additional guest bedrooms, suites, self-catering units and, or any other amenities and services. M 2.6 All buildings forming part of the premises are run by the same management, irrespective of ownership of each building. M In the event that any one or more of the buildings are no longer part of the same management, the Authority shall be informed of such change, and it shall determine whether the label and the licence granted is still applicable or if it is to be withdrawn. This is determined on a case-by-case basis. Such buildings shall be required to obtain a separate licence and provide all minimum requirements. 2.7 All buildings to form part of the premises shall have the same use class, as issued by the Planning Authority, and all other buildings are to satisfy same category standards as the main building. M 2.8 The premises consisting of all connected and, or unconnected buildings shall have the following maximum number of bedroom units, which rooms cannot be shared (hostel-type): M Guest Houses: 30 bedrooms Hotels: 50 bedrooms 2.9 Any buildings forming part of the premises, not being the main building as referred to in criterion 2.4, shall not have more than twenty

(20)bedroom units per building. M 48 2.10 The premises satisfies the main objective behind this label as defined in these regulations. 3.0 Exemptions 3.1 The premises shall conform with the requirements of a Tourism Accommodation Establishment of its class as stipulated in these regulations and shall have no exemptions unless eligible under other Special Labels such as the "Heritage Label". 4.0 Promotion 4.1 The licensee and, or operator of an establishment with a Diffuso Label shall ensure that the est