The City of Niagara Falls is currently exploring the possibility of allowing short-term rentals in residential locations within the municipality provided that the owner is present on the property during the rental period.
If the city chooses to amend by-laws to permit owner occupied short-term rentals, tourists would enjoy a wider range of accommodation options, particularly if they desire more space, as well as the conveniences of a traditional home, such as a fully-functioning kitchen.
Short-term rentals could also serve as a key boost to local tourism sectors during a period of economic uncertainty due to economic and trade tensions between Canada and the United States.
Owner-occupied short-term rentals are much like bed and breakfasts, which are allowed in select residential sections of the municipality.
If the city were to move forward in expanding short-term rental options in this way, the rules could be largely in-sync with those required of bed and breakfasts.
The largest difference, however, would be that while bed and breakfasts may allow for the booking of multiple rooms per night, owner-occupied short-term rentals can only serve one group of guests at a time.
Regulations that would apply for both bed and breakfasts and short-term rentals could include that the owner be present on the property for the duration of the rental, that rentals not exceed 28 days in a row, that additional parking be provided, and that a mandatory license be renewed each year.
Owner-occupied short-term rentals also share some commonality with vacation rental units, such as Airbnbs. With that being said, Airbnbs can be occupied by renters even if the owner is not present, as well as if the owner’s principal residence is not located on the property.
In addition, vacation rental units are only permitted in non-residential locations of the city at this juncture.
The city has sought input from the general public as part of its deliberation process. A survey was conducted last fall and a public open house was held shortly before Christmas.
On Tuesday, March 18, there will be a Public Meeting of Council where the endorsement of city staff to proceed in allowing owner occupied short-term rentals, including the related City-Initiated Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-law Amendment, will receive further discussion.
Those interested in viewing the Public Meeting of Council virtually can do so at 5:00 p.m. local time by visiting the following link: https://niagarafalls.ca/city-hall/council/schedule.aspx
Nick Redekop completed his Honours Bachelor of Arts Degree in Labour Studies at Brock University. He has previously served in municipal and federal politics. In his free time, Nick enjoys following sports, taking part in outdoor activities, and reading biographies. Nick resides in Niagara Falls
