When operating a short-term rental or Minpaku, fire safety equipment installation and inspection are mandatory under Japanese law. Failure to comply may result in suspension orders or fines up to ¥300,000. Smaller urban properties are often mistaken as exempt because they are “residential use,” but the legal threshold is clear.

1. Determining Obligation

Even with Private Lodging Business registration, if guests are unspecified members of the public, hotel‑level fire safety standards may apply.

For wooden buildings under 300 m², the minimum required items are emergency lights, fire extinguishers, and smoke alarms.

Buildings 300 m² or larger or three stories or higher require automatic fire alarm systems.

If the building’s use changes, procedures under Article 87 of the Building Standards Act must be followed.

2. Inspection and Reporting Practice

Fire equipment must be inspected every 6 months (functional check) and once a year (comprehensive check).

Reports must be submitted to the local fire station chief, and if outsourced, inspections must be conducted by a licensed fire protection engineer or certified fire prevention manager.

Copies of all reports must be kept for 3 years.

3. Example and Compliance Steps

Example: A 25 m² studio unit registered as a private lodging within a 2‑story wooden structure totaling under 100 m².

Required equipment includes one fire extinguisher, smoke alarms in bedroom and hallway, and an emergency light near the entrance.

Before operation, file the “Notification of Start of Use of Fire‑Target Building” with the fire department. After inspection clearance, hosting may begin.

4. Takeaway

Fire protection is the core infrastructure of Minpaku operations.

Neglecting installation, inspection, or reporting risks not only penalties but also loss of trust.

Evaluate requirements based on building size, structure, and guest capacity, and maintain semiannual inspections and annual reports to ensure both safety and profitability.