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Exemption for Recreational Rentals in Residential Areas

Do you want to rent out a home for recreational purposes in a residential area? You can only obtain an exemption for this in exceptional cases.

No exemption will be granted without demonstrable and ongoing historical use.

What does this product or service mean?

What should you pay attention to?

New tourist rentals in residential areas are not eligible!

In residential areas where short-term rentals are not normally permitted, an exemption for recreational stays may be requested in exceptional cases. This is an exception to the rule and is assessed very strictly.

The only valid reason for an exemption is:

You can demonstrate that there was already structural and continuous tourist rental (recreational stays) at that address prior to October 10, 2010.

All homes built after October 10, 2010 are, of course, NOT eligible.

Requirement
The property must have been rented out for recreational purposes before October 10, 2010, and must have remained rented out for recreational purposes without interruption since then.

If you cannot prove this continuity, no exemption will be granted.

For example: A property is rented out from 2009 through 2015. It is not rented out from 2015 through 2022. In 2022, the property is sold. The new owner wants to rent out the property for recreational purposes again. This is not considered uninterrupted rental. No exemption will be granted.

Evidence
To demonstrate that the rental of the property has been uninterrupted, evidence must be provided for EVERY year, starting from the period of use prior to October 10, 2010.

Evidence consists of:

  • annual payment of tourist tax
  • past bookings and reservations
  • rental agreements with tourists
  • proof of payment

PLEASE NOTE: A letter from the previous occupant alone is NOT sufficient.

How do you apply for this?

Follow these steps:

  1. Send a request for an exemption via email to directie_ro@bonairegov.com.
  2. CC directie_th@bonairegov.com.
  3. Attach your supporting documents and clearly describe which address or parcel is involved and what exactly you are requesting.

Who can you contact?

Email: directie_ro@bonairegov.com (cc: directie_th@bonairegov.com).

How long does it take?

After submitting a complete request, you will receive a confirmation of receipt.

Do you disagree with the decision?

After your request has been reviewed, you will receive a decision. Do you disagree with the decision?
In that case, you can usually file an objection. The decision letter explains how to file an objection and the deadline for doing so.

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