CONCERNS accommodation providers, including bed and breakfasts, could be operating illegally without permits has prompted the Ballarat City Council to organise a workshop to inform owners of their legal responsibilities.
The council became aware "some weeks ago" bed and breakfasts and self-accommodation providers could be operating illegally without a permit because of changes in the industry.
Planning and development director Darren Booth said it was not a "revenue grab" by the council, but designed to make sure business operators were complying with State Government legislation under the planning scheme.
"It has come to our attention that the bed and breakfast industry has changed the way it operates over the years," he said.
"Historically it was someone who owned a house and rented a room out, but that has developed and operators quite often have self-contained apartments or separate houses.
"The industry has moved, but the legislative framework hasn't.
"It has created some confusion out there in the industry about what their requirements are in terms of operating legally and what permits are required."
Mr Booth said it was up to businesses to ensure they were operating legally, and the council had organised a workshop to be held in August to provide information to owners.
Ballarat Tourist Association chair John Gleeson said regular discussions had been taking place with the council about the issue, and he was confident an agreement could be struck.
Mr Gleeson said he was aware of some operators who were concerned at the cost of a permit application.
"They are quite right to be concerned, because it could be quite a financial imposition, but my discussions with the council are they are very aware of it and they are working their way through it to get a good outcome."
The Ballarat Bed and Breakfast Group, which represents 75 accommodation properties, will meet tomorrow to discuss the issue, said spokeswoman Jenny Pegg.
"We are looking into it. It is an issue, and we are working with the council and tourism unit to get it resolved," she said.
The council workshop is being held on Wednesday, August 13, at BEST Community Development at 28 Victoria St from 6.30pm.