As of December 10, 2024, the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake has significantly changed its short-term rental (STR) policies. These updates are crucial for hosts using platforms like Airbnb and VRBO to ensure compliance and maintain their operations in a legally sound manner.
Licensing Requirements
Operating a short-term rental in Niagara-on-the-Lake requires obtaining a valid STR license. Listing your property on platforms such as Airbnb or VRBO does not substitute for this requirement.
Types of Short-Term Rental Establishments:
- Bed and Breakfast
- Cottage Rental
- Country Inn
- Vacation Apartment
- Villa
Application Process
Due to a moratorium effective December 10, 2024, the Town is no longer accepting new Cottage Rentals, Country Inns, Vacation Apartments, and Villas applications. However, existing operators can continue to renew their licenses.
Required Documents for Renewal:
- Completed Application Authorization and Declaration Form
- Acknowledgement Form
- Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) Inspection Certificate (required every four years)
- Valid Certificate of Insurance naming the Town as an “Additional Insured”
- Site Plan illustrating parking spaces and amenity areas
- Floor Plan detailing all floors of the dwelling
Fees:
- Renewal Application Fee: $600
- Room Rate: $290 per room
Processing Time:
The complete process, from submission to receiving a valid license, may take up to ten weeks.
Compliance and Operational Standards
Inspections:
The Fire and By-law departments will inspect the property for all renewal applications. Operators must complete and submit the appropriate By-law and Fire checklists before inspection.
Advertising:
All advertisements must include the valid license number issued by the Town. Failure to do so may result in penalties.
Renter’s Code of Conduct:
Operators are required to provide guests with the Town’s Renter’s Code of Conduct, which outlines expectations regarding noise, parking, waste disposal, and other community standards.
Property Standards:
Operators must ensure their properties meet all municipal property standards, including maintenance of the interior and exterior, waste management, and adherence to noise bylaws.
Future Considerations
The Town Council has directed staff to conduct a detailed analysis of short-term rentals to determine whether a maximum limit should be imposed on them. The findings will be presented to the Council by June 1, 2025.
For more detailed information or assistance with the renewal process, operators can contact the Short-Term Rental Coordinator at 905-468-3266 or email [email protected]. To get more information about other regulations, you can also visit Niagara-on-the-Lake’s official website or contact us.
Explore our services in Airbnb Management Niagara-on-the-Lake for comprehensive support in managing your property in compliance with local regulations.