What Exactly Is Considered a Short-Term Rental in Vaughan?
In Oakville, a short-term rental is defined as any listing where guests stay for 29 consecutive days or less. To operate legally, hosts must apply for a Short-Term Accommodation (STA) Licence through the Town of Oakville. If you rent your property for 30 days or longer, it is considered a long-term rental and no licence is required.
All official booking platforms (Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, etc.) will require you to provide a valid licence number before listing your property for stays under 30 days.
Municipal Accommodation Tax
The four per cent fee will be applied to accommodations of less than 30 consecutive days and include hotels, motels, motor hotels, lodges, inns, resorts, bed and breakfasts, or other lodging including those sold online. It is applied only to the purchase price of accommodation (ie. room fee) and does not apply to amenity fees or service charges. More details here.
Quick Summary of Oakville Airbnb Rules
- Short-term rental: 29 consecutive days or less.
- Principal residence only: Property must be the host’s primary home (183+ days/year).
- Must be a permanent resident of Canada.
- Licence required: Apply online or in person. The fee is $250 annually.
- Licence number: Must be displayed on all listings and advertisements.
- Long-term rentals (30+ days): Do not require licensing.
- Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT): Oakville imposes a 4% MAT tax on all short-term stays, which must be collected and remitted monthly by the host.
Principal Residence Rule
In Oakville, you may only operate a short-term rental at your principal residence. A property qualifies as a principal residence if:
- It is a housing unit that you own (alone or jointly) or have the right to occupy.
- You live in the property for at least 183 days per year.
- You are a permanent resident of Canada.
- You designate the property as your principal residence on government records.
This rule prohibits investment properties, secondary homes, or non-owner-occupied condos from being used as Airbnbs in Oakville.
How to Apply for an Oakville Short-Term Rental Licence
Step-by-Step (Apply Online Here):
- Complete the application form online or submit it in person.
- Provide required documents:
- Proof of age (must be at least 18 years old).
- Criminal record check issued within the last 60 days.
- Proof of $2 million liability insurance coverage.
- Proof of principal residence (utility bill, tax form, driver’s licence, etc.).
- Contact information for the responsible host/owner.
- Written permission from the landlord if you are a tenant.
- Written approval from the condo board if your property is in a condo.
- Fire safety plan and evacuation procedures.
- Site plan showing parking and a floor plan of rental space.
- Pay the $250 annual licence fee.
Oakville Enforcement & Penalties
Oakville enforces its short-term rental by-law through:
- Licence suspension or revocation.
- Fines under the Provincial Offences Act.
- Unpaid fines added directly to property tax bills.
- Unannounced inspections of licensed short-term rentals.
Oakville implements a demerit point system very similar to the system used by the province for penalizing drivers. The more complaints or violations accrued by the property will decide the penalties that the home owner(s) will face.
Failure to comply can result in significant financial penalties, including daily fines for operating without a licence.
Oakville Airbnb Market Potential
- Average Nightly Rate: $185 – $550 depending on property size and location.
- Premium Properties: $700+ during peak summer months (lakefront homes, luxury condos, townhouses).
- Occupancy: Averages 60% year-round, peaking as high as 85% in the summer.
- Seasonal Revenue: Premium homes can earn $3,500+ per month during Oakville’s busy summer tourism season.
Why Oakville is a Top Airbnb Destination
Oakville is one of Ontario’s most desirable suburban communities, blending lakeside beauty with urban convenience.
Visitors are drawn to:
- The Oakville waterfront, with trails, marinas, and beaches.
- Downtown Oakville, lined with boutique shops, fine dining, and cafés.
- Cultural attractions like the Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts and multiple galleries.
- Annual events such as the Oakville Film Festival, Waterfront Festival, and local farmers’ markets.
- Easy access to Toronto, Mississauga, Hamilton, and Niagara Falls, making Oakville an ideal base for exploring the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
With limited hotel infrastructure, Oakville’s short-term rentals fill a growing need for visitors seeking more space, comfort, and privacy.
Demand for Mid-Term Rentals (30+ Days) in Oakville
Yes, demand for mid-term rentals is strong in Oakville. Roughly one-third of rental activity is for stays of 30 nights or longer, driven by:
- Relocating families waiting on home purchases.
- Professionals on temporary contracts.
- Remote workers seeking extended stays in the GTA.
These guests prioritize fully furnished, well-located homes that allow them to experience Oakville’s lifestyle while enjoying the flexibility of a temporary residence.
Why Choose Guestable for Your Oakville Airbnb
- Best Revenue Optimization Strategies:
- Data-driven pricing and dynamic adjustments to maximize your earnings.
- Tailored Management Solutions
- Customized strategies to meet your unique hosting goals.
- Client-Focused Communication:
- 24/7 support with transparent updates and real-time communication.
- Dynamic Rental Approach:\
- Expertise across both short- and mid-term rental markets, with seasonal demand forecasting.
- Guest Experience & Ground Support:
- Local presence across the GTA to deliver hands-on service to both hosts and guests.
Oakville Airbnb FAQ
Can I run an Airbnb in Oakville?
Yes! Only if it is your principal residence. Before you begin renting out your residence you must obtain an STA licence and comply with Oakville’s short-term rental by-law.
How long does the licence process take?
The online application takes minutes to complete. Full approval may take 2-3 weeks though, it is all depending on the length of time for inspections and document submission.
Do I need to collect any tax from guests?
Yes, Oakville enforces a standard 4% MAT tax on short-term rentals. This must be collected from guests and remitted monthly to the Town.
Final Word for Hosts
Oakville’s short-term rental market offers a balance between community lifestyle, tourism growth, and strong rental demand. With the right licensing and professional management, hosts can unlock excellent earning potential while providing high-quality accommodations in one of Ontario’s most scenic and sought-after destinations.
Start Your Oakville Short-Term Rental Application Here →
If you’re looking for expert support to streamline your hosting experience and stay fully compliant, explore our services for Airbnb Management Oakville.