Know your legal obligations

Essential guidance on the legal obligations of tourism accommodation and attraction businesses in England.

The Pink Book contains guidance on:

  • Laws and regulations affecting tourism accommodation and attraction businesses in England.
  • New and updated legislation that you need to know about.
  • Your responsibilities as an employer and business-owner.
  • Crucial licences and consents, and health and safety laws.
  • Business management and tax rules, for companies of all sizes.
  • Laws regarding discrimination, working hours, GDPR and more.

Buy a printed copy of our legislation guide

Printed copies of the Pink Book: legislation for tourist accommodation and attractions are available to purchase.

Licences and consents

Ensure that you have the correct permissions and certification for your business.

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Marketing

Want to grow your business? This guidance is essential reading.

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Customers

Understand your rights and obligations when dealing with customers and the public.

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Food and drink

If your business serves food or drink, learn more about your duties and responsibilities.

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Environmental protection

Whether your business is large or small, sustainable choices make a big difference.

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Health and safety

Essential legislation and guidance to keep you, your staff and your customers safe.

  • Health & Safety at Work Act

    Your responsibilities for the safety of your staff and your legal obligation to complete a health & safety assessment.

  • Health and safety liabilities

    Your liability to guests and employees, what insurance you can take and whether you need a licence to transport guests.

  • Safety management

    Your legal obligations under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.

  • Hazards from work activities

    How to ensure your staff do their jobs safely, such as employees who use computers.

  • Legionnaires’ disease

    Legionella is classified as a “hazardous substance” and you are required to undertake a risk assessment, and any subsequent remedial actions, in o

  • Hazards in the workplace

    Guidance on the use of safety glass, preventing trips and testing electrical products.

  • Product safety

    How to ensure you provide safe products for your customers, particularly for gas and electrical appliances.

  • Swimming, gym and outdoor safety

    How to manage health & safety for swimming pools and gyms and whether you need a licence for adventure activities.

  • Fire safety (general)

    How the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 applies to tourism businesses.

  • Fire safety of furniture and furnishings

    What legislation applies in relation to the fire safety of furniture.

  • Complete your Fire Risk Assessment

    Use our free template to help comply with your legal obligation.

  • Smoking in public places

    Your legal duty to display a no smoking sign and ensure enclosed spaces remain smoke-free.

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    Staff

    If you have employees – whether staff or contractors – this section applies to you.

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    Business management and tax

    Know your legal responsibilities and requirements as a tourism business owner.