Blackpool could introduce hotel and B&B licences
Tourism officials in Blackpool want to introduce a by-law requiring all hotels and guest houses to register with the council.
The compulsory licence would cover fire and health regulations, basic training and dealing with complaints.
Hotelier Eddie Battelle, who came up with the idea, said he wanted to bring an end to stories of dirty, dangerous and overcrowded accommodation.
The plans were drawn up after voluntary registrations proved unsuccessful.
Mr Battelle said: "If someone gives a bad experience to a guest, it has a knock-on effect to other hoteliers within the town and that's what we need to get away from."
Claire Smith, president of Stay Blackpool, said: "It's not about getting rid of cheap B&Bs, it's about ensuring whatever level you stay at it is safe and it is clean and tidy.
"All we're trying to do is ensure that everyone is fit for purpose."
If approved, hoteliers would renew their licence each year.
A spokesman for Blackpool Council said the proposals were at an early stage.