Quick answer

The tenant can install a satellite dish with the landlord’s written consent and in compliance with local planning rules. Some municipalities and condominiums prohibit visible dishes on facades. The installation must be reversible, and the tenant must remove the dish and restore the premises at the end of the lease.

A satellite dish is not a standard fixture — it modifies the property’s exterior appearance and may require planning permission. The tenant must check three levels of approval:

  1. Landlord’s consent (written)
  2. Condominium rules (if applicable)
  3. Municipal planning regulations

Planning and condominium rules

Rule sourceTypical restrictions
Condominium regulationsMay prohibit dishes on facades, require roof installation
Municipal planningMay require permits for visible installations
Heritage protectionStricter rules in protected areas or buildings
Lease clauseMay prohibit exterior modifications
Check before installing

Always check the condominium regulations (reglement de copropriete) and municipal planning rules before installing a satellite dish. Installing without permission can result in fines and an order to remove the dish.

End of lease obligations

At the end of the lease:

  • Remove the dish and any brackets or fixings
  • Restore the facade/wall to its original condition (fill holes, repaint if needed)
  • Remove cables or conduits installed for the dish
  • Any damage caused by the installation or removal is at the tenant’s expense

If the dish is left in place without the landlord’s agreement, the cost of removal and restoration will be deducted from the deposit.

Regional specifics

Brussels-Capital Region

The Ordinance of 27 July 2017 does not specifically address satellite dishes. Municipal planning rules vary across the 19 Brussels municipalities.

Wallonia

The Decree of 15 March 2018 applies the same framework. Walloon planning rules are managed at the municipal level.

Flanders

The Flemish Housing Rental Decree of 9 November 2018 applies the general rules. Flemish planning regulations may require a permit for visible exterior installations.