A "short-term accommodation" typically describes a rental property that is rented out over a short period of time (i.e. less than 29 consecutive days) for a fee. Platforms such as Airbnb and VRBO offer a service where individuals can advertise and book a short-term accommodation.
Beginning on May 1, 2025, the City’s new Short-Term Accommodation By-law will come into effect. The By-law requires that all short-term accommodations be licensed in Burlington by the property owner.
The by-law is designed to address the following:
Housing availability: the by-law requires that any property licensed as a short-term accommodation must be the primary residence of the applicant (or have approval from the primary applicant) and can only be rented for a maximum consecutive 28 days and a total of six months (183 days) per year. This aims to encourage property owners to prioritize long-term rental agreements over short-term stays.
Common nuisances: The by-law aims to mitigate common neighbourhood nuisances such as noise, parking issues, and garbage. Short-term accommodation owners will need to provide a ‘renter’s code’ to anyone renting the unit which outlines relevant City by-laws and behavioural expectations. This includes submitting a plan for garbage and parking prior to approval. Additionally, occupancy of the rentals will depend on the size of the rental home to limit noise.
Safety: Owners will be required to submit certificates showing that the HVAC and electrical systems meet requirements prior to a licence being issued. They will also have to sign a declaration to comply with the maintenance and parking plans, Building Code and Fire Code.
Applications for an Short-Term Accommodations operator licence will be open in April 2025. The cost of the application is $300.