In short
In exclusively residential zones, operation is not allowed from Monday noon to Saturday noon. For an amendment in April 2027, a system that lifts the restriction only for host-resident types and similar operators that meet certain conditions is being considered.
Operating days and areas
| Area | Operating period / restriction |
|---|---|
| Exclusively residential zones | Not allowed from Monday noon to Saturday noon (except from noon on a holiday to noon the next day) |
| All other areas | Up to 180 days a year |
Under national law, the upper limit is 180 days a year.
Notice to neighbors before starting
- Before filing the notification, inform neighbors within about 10 m of the site boundary in writing (for apartment buildings, the same floor and the floors above and below; for condominiums, also the management association)
Where to file and consult
Setagaya Public Health Center, Life and Health Division (世田谷保健所 生活保健課); both advance consultation and filing are by appointment only. Procedures and required documents can change, so check the latest guidance from the office. A fire safety compliance certificate (消防法令適合通知書) from the fire station is also required.
Other main rules of the ward
- The guideline for on-site response is within 30 minutes
- Self-management is allowed only if there are 5 or fewer habitable rooms and the operator lives on the same site or next door
- Attend the city's training course at least once every 2 years
Additional rules for kan'i shukusho (Hotel Business Act)
- Draft outline of the amendment: displaying a sign (also applies to existing facilities), a front desk (玄関帳場) or equivalent equipment, explanations in languages suited to the guests, etc.
Recent and planned changes
- Draft outline of the amendment (public comment September 15 – October 6, 2026, ended): While keeping the weekday restriction in exclusively residential zones, a "lifting of restriction" is being considered that would allow operators that meet conditions, such as the host-resident type, to operate up to 180 days a year. Also under consideration: notifying nearby residents before opening, making an on-site response system mandatory, and restrictions on flag-shaped lots (sites reached via a narrow passage)
- An amendment will be submitted to the city council in February 2027, with enforcement planned for April 2027
This page is a translation of our Japanese page. If there is any difference, the Japanese version prevails. Japanese version