🏠 What is Legally Required for Local Accommodation (AL) in Portugal

Find out what is legally required for Local Accommodation in Portugal. Discover the safety, identification, and equipment requirements mandated by law according to Decree-Law No. 128/2014 and updated legislation.

✅ What the Law Says About Local Accommodation

The activity of Local Accommodation (AL) is regulated by Decree-Law No. 128/2014, of August 29, which establishes the main legal obligations for owners and managers of tourist accommodation in Portugal.

The objective of this legislation is to ensure that all establishments offer minimum conditions of safety, hygiene, and comfort to guests.

🔥 Mandatory Safety Requirements (Article 13, paragraph 2)

According to Decree-Law No. 128/2014, local accommodation with a capacity of less than 10 guests must comply with the following requirements:

• Fire extinguisher with easy access:
  
  
  Studio/1-bedroom → 2 kg ABC dry powder extinguisher;
  
  
  2-bedroom/3-bedroom → 6 kg extinguisher;
  
  
  4-bedroom or more → 6 kg or larger ABC extinguisher.
  
  
  
• Fire blanket placed in an accessible location, preferably in the kitchen.
  
• First aid kit available and accessible to guests.
  
• National emergency number (112) displayed in a visible and legible place.
  

💡 Tip: Periodically check the validity of safety equipment and replace it whenever necessary.

🚪 "Alojamento Local" Identification Plate

Except for single-family houses, all establishments registered as AL must have an approved plate affixed to the main entrance, as per Ordinance No. 262/2020.

The plate must include:

• The acronym “AL”;
  
• The registration number assigned by the RNAL (National Register of Local Accommodation).
  

In the Azores and Madeira, regional legislation requires the placement of the identification plate in all types of local accommodation.