Toronto defines short-term rentals as private homes, apartments, or individual rooms for less than 28 consecutive days. These apply to platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, and similar home-sharing services but do not include hotels, motels, or unpaid accommodations. Whether you’re a homeowner or a tenant, understanding Toronto’s short-term rental laws is essential for staying compliant and running a successful listing.
This updated guide breaks down everything you need to know about short-term rental regulations in Toronto so you can host responsibly and avoid fines or removals.
Hosting from Your Primary Residence Only
Toronto short-term rental regulations only allow you to rent your primary residence, whether an entire home or individual rooms. To legally operate a short-term rental, you must register your listing with the City of Toronto. Hosts must either display a valid registration number on their listing or apply for and list an official exemption. Listings that fail to comply may be removed or blocked from platforms like Airbnb.
To register your short-term rental in Toronto, you must provide:
- Your address and contact information
- Details of the rental property (entire unit or room)
- A 24/7 emergency contact name and phone number
- Valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., Ontario driver’s license or photo card)
- A $375 annual registration fee (paid online via credit card)
Once submitted, the city will review your application. If approved, you’ll receive a registration number by email within five business days. This number must be added to every listing.
Annual Renewal of Registration
Toronto’s short-term rental license is valid for one year from the date of issue. To continue hosting, you must renew the license annually and pay the $375 renewal fee. This can be completed quickly through the city’s official website.
Can Tenants or Laneway Suite Owners Host?
Yes. Tenants or individuals living in secondary or laneway suites can legally operate short-term rentals—but only if it is their primary residence. Only your principal residence in Toronto can be listed on Airbnb.
Night Limits for Entire Home Rentals
Toronto caps short-term rentals of entire homes at 180 nights per year. However, if you’re only renting individual rooms in your home, there is no limit to how many nights you can host annually (up to three bedrooms per unit).
Taxes and Airbnb Compliance
All Toronto Airbnb hosts must pay a 4% Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) on stays of 28 days or less. Fortunately, as of January 1, 2021, Airbnb automatically collects and remits this tax on behalf of hosts in Toronto.
Other Rules to Know Before Hosting
Beyond the official bylaws, you must also follow additional rules set by your lease, condo board, HOA, or tenant association. This includes local building policies, community regulations, and zoning laws. If you’re unsure, consult your property manager or local council.
Final Thoughts: Stay Compliant and Confident as a Toronto Airbnb Host
Compliance with Toronto’s short-term rental regulations is easier when informed and proactive. Following these updated 2025 regulations will keep your listing active, profitable, and legally secure. If you’re ready to grow your rental income while staying fully compliant, consider working with an expert in Airbnb Management Toronto to handle the entire process—from listing optimization to guest communication and cleaning.