Fire Safety Plans (MAP) for Short-Term Rentals
The rules change depending on the property's capacity.
Why short-term rentals are different
Short-term rentals (alojamento local, AL) have their own fire safety regime, set out in Decreto-Lei n.º 128/2014 and Portaria n.º 262/2020, and requirements change significantly depending on how many people the property can host.
This means two properties of the same type can have very different obligations, purely because of their declared capacity.
When this usually becomes urgent
- Registering a new short-term rental — the local council usually asks for proof of minimum measures before issuing the registration
- Increasing the declared capacity above 10 guests, which changes the requirements completely
- Renewing the AL registration
- A failed inspection that flagged missing basic equipment
What's required depending on capacity
Up to 10 guests, requirements are simplified: a suitable extinguisher, a fire blanket near the kitchen area, an accessible first-aid kit, and the emergency number (112) posted visibly — no MAP submission or regular inspections needed. Above 10 guests, the property is treated as a hotel establishment (Utilização-Tipo VII), with a full MAP to be submitted for ANEPC approval up to 30 days before opening, and regular inspections depending on the risk category.
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Frequently asked questions
What do I need for a small short-term rental (up to 10 guests)?
A suitable extinguisher, a fire blanket near the kitchen area, an accessible first-aid kit, and the emergency number (112) posted visibly.
What if I have more than 10 guests?
The property is treated as a hotel establishment (Utilização-Tipo VII), with a full MAP to be submitted for ANEPC approval up to 30 days before opening.
This guide is general orientation and doesn't replace legal or technical advice. Your building's exact risk category and obligations are determined by a técnico autor registered with ANEPC.