Short-term rentals (STRs) in Kawartha Lakes offer visitors a chance to experience the area’s natural beauty and charm. However, hosts must adhere to specific regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for all. This guide outlines the key rules and requirements for operating a short-term rental in the Kawartha Lakes area.
Definition of Short-Term Rentals
In Kawartha Lakes, a short-term rental is defined as accommodation provided for 28 consecutive days or less. This includes renting a private room, an entire home, a seasonal property such as a cottage, or any other suitable space. Establishments such as bed and breakfasts, hotels, trailer parks, and campgrounds are excluded from this definition.
Licensing Requirements and Fees
As of 2025, all short-term rental operators in Kawartha Lakes must obtain a Short Term Rental Accommodation Business License. The licensing fees are as follows:
Hosted Rentals (owner resides on-site):
- 6 months (May–October or November–April): $150
- Year-round: $300
Un-hosted Rentals (owner does not reside on-site):
- 6 months (May–October or November–April): $750
- Year-round: $1,500
These fees are non-refundable and must be paid before license approval. Applications can be submitted online or in person.
Application Requirements
When applying for a license, hosts must provide:
- Proof of property ownership
- Copy of the property owner’s driver’s license
- Proof of general liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $2 million
- Detailed site diagram and floor plan, including:
- Location of all buildings and structures
- Location of wells and sewage systems
- Use of each room
- Location of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, fire extinguishers, and emergency exits
Additionally, hosts must sign a declaration acknowledging compliance with all applicable bylaws and regulations.
By-Law Inspection Fees
Hosts are responsible for their guests’ behaviour. If a municipal by-law is violated, the following inspection fees may apply:
- First Occurrence: No cost
- Second Occurrence: $112
- Third Occurrence: $225
- Fourth Occurrence: $445
- Fifth Occurrence: $894
- Sixth Occurrence: Fees double
These fees are charged to the property owner in addition to any fines imposed on the individuals who violated the regulations.
Fire Pit and Open Air Burns
Before lighting a bonfire, check the current burn ban status on the Kawartha Lakes Fire Rescue Service website. Key rules include:
- Fire pits must not exceed 60 cm in diameter
- Must be at least 15 meters from structures and 5 meters from property lines
- Fires must be attended to at all times
- Water must be readily available for extinguishing
- Smoke must not disturb neighbours
Waste and Recycling
Guests must dispose of garbage in clear bags and separate recyclables accordingly. For collection days and guidelines, refer to the Municipal Waste Calendar.
Parking
Parking should be confined to the property being visited. Ensure vehicles are parked legally and do not obstruct roadways or access points.
Noise Regulations
To maintain neighbourhood tranquillity, the following noise by-laws apply:
- Amplified noise (e.g., stereos) is prohibited from 11 p.m. to 11 a.m.
- Yelling, shouting, and playing musical instruments are prohibited from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m.
- Persistent pet noises, such as barking, are prohibited at all times.
Pets
Guests must always keep pets under control and prevent them from wandering onto neighbouring properties.
Fireworks
Consumer fireworks are permitted without a permit on specific holidays, including New Year’s Eve, Labour Day, Family Day, Canada Day, Indigenous Peoples Day, and Victoria Day. Rules include:
- Children must not use fireworks
- Fireworks must not be discharged into vehicles, structures, or buildings
- Maintain a distance of at least 30 meters from structures or property lines
- Fireworks are prohibited during burn bans
Property Standards
Hosts must ensure their properties are well-maintained, adhering to the Property Standards By-law. This includes keeping the property waste-free, maintaining grass and weeds at a height of 8 inches or less, and removing graffiti from structures.
Additional Regulations
Hosts should also be aware of and comply with other applicable rules, such as leases, community guidelines, and homeowner association regulations. For more information, visit the official Kawartha Lakes website or contact the Municipal Law Enforcement and Licensing office.
For professional assistance in managing your property and ensuring compliance with all regulations, explore our services for Airbnb Management in Kawartha Lakes.