By Kezia Royer-Burkett, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The City of Burlington is taking steps to introduce restrictions and a licensing framework for short-term rentals, a sector that has grown rapidly alongside traditional lodging options like hotels. These efforts aim to address community concerns, establish compliance standards, and balance the interests of residents, property owners, and the city’s tourism industry.
Currently, approximately 700 to 1,000 short-term rentals operate within Burlington, though the exact number is still being assessed. The new regulations will require short-term rental properties to be the owner’s primary Canadian residence and comply with licensing requirements similar to those in neighbouring municipalities, like Hamilton, Oakville, Mississauga, and Toronto. Municipal inspectors will conduct inspections to ensure compliance; licensing fees will be in line with those of other cities.
Although a timeline for implementing the restrictions has not yet been set, the city plans to develop the bylaw framework after the City Council reviews and approves the proposed measures.
Public feedback will also be incorporated into the bylaw’s final design. The city engaged with Burlington residents on this topic, alongside others, at September’s Food for Feedback event, through two late-November virtual public information sessions, and via an online survey that was open from Nov. 6 to Nov. 29 on the city’s Get Involved Burlington platform.
At the virtual feedback sessions, residents were provided with a platform to voice their opinions on potential regulations. While the city is still in the information-gathering stage, attendees were eager to understand the types of rules being considered. The feedback will be presented to the city council for a vote on whether to move forward with bylaw development. Residents can expect further opportunities to contribute as the city shapes these regulations, ensuring a community-driven approach.
One proposed measure under consideration is applying the municipal accommodation tax (currently levied on hotels) to short-term rentals. If approved, revenue from this tax would support local tourism initiatives.
To ensure compliance, the city will combine education, enforcement, and clear communication with property owners. Details about the implementation process and the rollout of the new licensing system are expected to emerge in 2025.
With these efforts, Burlington aims to strike a balance between fostering tourism and ensuring that the growing short-term rental sector aligns with the needs of the local community.
For an example of a short-term accommodation bylaw, click here to read more on Oakville’s terms for short-term rentals.
