Short-Term Rental Accommodation

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Short-Term Rental Accommodations are also required to participate in the Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) program.  

South Bruce Peninsula strives to maintain a balance between the growth of Short-Term Rental Accommodations (STRA) and maintaining of our sense community. The rise in popularity of STRAs has brought both economic benefits and challenges as more and more people, seek to vacation in our town.

Why Regulate Short-Term Rental Accommodations (STRA’s)?

As the STRA market flourished in South Bruce Peninsula, so did concerns voiced by our residents. Issues such as noise disturbances, fireworks, waste management, parking, rental capacities, and septic system challenges became prevalent. In response to the concerns of our constituents, while acknowledging the advantages of STRAs, Town Council took a proactive step by implementing licensing requirements.

All Short-Term Rental Accommodation providers MUST obtain a license before renting.

The Benefits of Licensing

South Bruce Peninsula boasts a significant number of Short-Term Rental Accommodations that contribute to our local economy as well as offer homeowners an additional income stream. However, to ensure that STRAs align with the Town’s Zoning Bylaw and uphold the character of our neighborhoods, licensing has become essential.

Licensing serves various purposes:

• Zoning Compliance: Brings STRAs in line with the Town’s Zoning Bylaw.
• Regulation: Establishes rules and regulations to prevent adverse effects on neighboring properties.
• Safety Assurance: Improve occupants safety accommodations.

Defining Short-Term Rental Accommodations

A Short-Term Rental Accommodation refers to the commercial use of a residential dwelling, rented for up to 30 consecutive days. This includes temporary accommodation, lodging, or occupancy through various arrangements like concessions, permits, leases, licenses, or rental agreements.

Key Considerations for Licensing

Niagara Escarpment Regulated Area (NEC): Properties within this area are required to apply for an STRA license from the municipality.  This is in keeping with the NEC directives regarding properties in the NEC area being used and rented as STRAs.  

Exclusions: Certain establishments like hotels, motels, tourist cottages (paying commercial property tax), and others are not covered under STRA regulations.

Important Notes:

• A 'garden suite' or 'shed' conversion is not permitted for Short-Term Rental Accommodation.
• Occupancy limits are determined not only by the number of bedrooms but also by septic system limitations.

Ensuring Compliance and Safety

For detailed information on Short-Term Rental Accommodation Licenses, please reach out to our Licencing and Compliance Officer. Some third-party booking platforms are now allowing hosts to display their municipal licenses as part of their rental ads, thus providing renters with the knowledge that the STRA meets specific public health and safety criteria.

If your third-party booking provider does not provide a specific field for your license number, you can still consider including somewhere in your rental advertisement.

If you are not currently licensed, apply now online to become a Short-Term Rental Accommodation provider

Contact Jack Hammill, Licencing Officer for more information.