Fire Safety for Guesthouses and Short-Term Rentals in Latvia

Latvia's Fire Safety Regulations (Cabinet Regulation No. 238 of 19 April 2016) apply to every building, including guesthouses and apartments rented to tourists. The State Fire and Rescue Service (VUGD) supervises compliance. Since July 2026 short-term rentals also count as tourist accommodation, so hosts should review their fire safety now.

Who is responsible

According to VUGD guidance, the owner is responsible for fire safety. A manager or tenant can be responsible instead if a contract says so. That person must follow the regulations, allow state fire-safety inspections and follow instructions during an emergency.

Smoke detectors

• In a single-dwelling home, VUGD guidance requires at least one autonomous smoke detector on every floor. It recommends one in every room where people sleep.
• Mount it on the ceiling, at least 0.5 m from walls, and test it monthly with the test button.
• Larger guest accommodation may need an automatic fire detection and alarm system. Check the requirements in Reg. No. 238 for your building type and capacity.

Extinguishers and heating

• Keep extinguishers visible and easy to reach; check them visually and service them according to the manufacturer.
• Have wood-burning stoves and chimneys checked by a certified specialist (e.g. a chimney sweep) every five years, according to VUGD guidance. Gas appliances need annual servicing unless the manufacturer says otherwise.
• Have electrical wiring inspected by a certified electrician every 10 years, per VUGD guidance.

Guest information

• Put an escape plan and the emergency number 112 in every room or in the welcome book
• Keep escape routes and exits clear
• Ban candles and smoking where appropriate

Official sources

• Cabinet Regulation No. 238 "Fire Safety Regulations" (likumi.lv)
• VUGD: explanations of the Fire Safety Regulations
• VUGD: fire safety in houses (information materials)

Last reviewed 29 October 2026. This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice. Check the linked official sources for your case.