Chandigarh, June 28 -- Opening up select residential properties for tourism use, the UT administration has notified the use of houses for bed & breakfast (B&B) establishments, aiming to boost the city's hospitality capacity while creating income opportunities for homeowners. The notification, issued by the estates department under Rule 9(i) of the Chandigarh Estate Rules, 2007, has been approved by administrator Gulab Chand Kataria. It allows eligible residential units to operate as B&B establishments in accordance with the policy framed by the department of tourism. According to the policy, only residential units with a minimum plot size of 500 square yards will qualify for registration under the B&B scheme. Additionally, only property owners (not tenants or third parties) will be permitted to apply. Applicants will be required to register their premises as B&B establishments and obtain all necessary permissions and no-objection certificates (NOCs) before commencing operations. Compliance with all prescribed conditions will be mandatory. Officials said the initiative is designed to ensure "responsible use" of residential spaces without compromising zoning norms or neighbourhood character, while also maintaining quality and safety standards for guests. The administration expects the policy to complement existing hotel infrastructure, particularly during peak tourist seasons and major events, while offering visitors a more personalised homestay experience rooted in Chandigarh's local culture and hospitality....