Accommodation Businesses

To operate an accommodation business for more than 5 people within Colac Otway Shire you need:

  • Approval or exemption from Council's planning department
  • Compliance with the Building Regulations & Classifications
  • Registration under the Public Health & Wellbeing Act 2008 as Prescribed Accommodation

 

Prescribed Accommodation applies to any residential accommodation (>4 people), hotels and motels, hostels, student dormitories, rooming houses and holiday camps.

Before starting an accommodation business it’s important you know how to comply with Council requirements, which are based on the Public Health and Wellbeing Act 2008. The Council inspects premises before you can start operating and conducts follow up inspections of the accommodation facility to ensure guest health and safety is maintained.

A New Accommodation Business

If you want to start a new accommodation business you should contact Council’s Health Protection team on (03) 5235 9400 for advice on Planning compliance and Building compliance.

After receiving approval or an exemption from Planning and Building, the business needs to comply with the Public Health and Wellbeing Act 2008 and the Prescribed Accommodation Regulations 2020.

If you’re ready to proceed with your business, then you can contact Council's Health Protection team for a registration form and to arrange an inspection of the property.

  1. Obtain planning permit or planning exemption
  2. Obtain Building approval (if applicable)
  3. Submit Registration form for Public Health & Wellbeing Act 2008 with Council
  4. Inspection by Council's Health Officer on day of settlement or as soon after settlement.
  5. Obtain a certificate for registration under the Public Health & Wellbeing Act 2008

Purchasing an Existing Accommodation Business

If you’re purchasing an existing accommodation business, ensure the business is currently an approved accommodation business.

Contact Council's Health Protection unit for information.

A transfer of the Public Health & Wellbeing Act Registration is necessary. Contact Council in writing to request the paperwork.

  1. Submit Registration Transfer form
  2. Inspection by Council's Health Officer on day of settlement or as soon after settlement.
  3. Obtain a certificate for registration under the Public Health & Wellbeing Act 2008

Bed and Breakfast Businesses

Bed and breakfasts providing accommodation for 5 or more people must also be registered with Council under the Public Health and Well Being Act 2008. However, a planning permit is usually not required for B & B’s accommodating five guests or less.

To serve food in a bed and breakfast, the operator must be registered with Council under the Food Act 1984. This means there might also be a requirement to undertake a food safety program. Visit the Victorian Department of Health website for further information on this, including details on food classification.

For more information or to enquire about establishing a bed and breakfast business, contact the Council’s health protection team on (03) 5235 9400.

 

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