What’s Changing for Sex Work Venues in Brussels

What’s Changing for Sex Work Venues in Brussels

Starting September 1, 2024, new rules will apply if you wish to open, convert, or change the use of a venue related to sex work in the Brussels-Capital Region. This includes:

• Brothels
• Sex shops
• Peepshows
• Venues for erotic performances
• “Carrées” (windows or locations where sex work is visible from the street)

Urban Planning Permit Requirement

From now on, if you want to:

• Open a new brothel, sex shop, peepshow, erotic performance venue, or “carré”
• Convert an existing business (such as a shop or bar) into one of these venues
• Add a sex work-related activity to an existing business (for example, opening a prostitution space within a sex shop)

You are required to apply for an urban planning permit from your local municipality before starting the activity or any construction work. This applies in almost all areas of Brussels, except for certain industrial or port zones (which are rarely affected by sex work).

Why Is This Permit Required?

The urban planning permit allows the municipality to ensure that the activity is compatible with the neighborhood (residents, safety, peace, diversity of activities, etc.). The aim is to:

• Limit disturbances for local residents
• Ensure safety and hygiene
• Preserve the diversity of businesses in neighborhoods

Concrete Examples

• If you want to open a new brothel in an apartment or commercial space, you must first obtain this permit.
• If you convert a sex shop into a brothel, a permit is also required.
• If you add a peepshow activity to an existing business, you must also apply for a permit.

What Are the Risks Without a Permit?

Opening or converting a sex work venue without this permit may result in:

• The venue being closed by the municipality
• Fines
• Difficulties in asserting your rights or working safely

What Should You Do If You Are Concerned?

• Before any opening or conversion, consult your municipality’s urban planning department.
• Prepare an urban planning permit application (the municipality can assist you or direct you to specialized organizations).
• Wait until you have received authorization before starting the activity or any work.

Key Points to Remember

• An urban planning permit is now mandatory for any change or creation of sex work venues in Brussels.
• This rule aims to better regulate the activity, protect sex workers, and ensure good conditions for everyone.
• If in doubt, seek advice from your municipality or a sex workers’ rights organization.