Short Term Rentals in Grimsby

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Latest Update

On Monday October 21st, 2024, Council ratified report BYL-24-06 which was presented at the Corporate Services Standing Committee on October 7th, 2024. The report outlined all of the findings from the internal project team, concerns related to a Short Term Rental By-law and licensing program, and options for the Committee and Council.

With report BYL-24-06 being received for information, the Town of Grimsby is not moving forward with a Short Term Rental By-law and licensing program.

Summary

Online platforms have led to a rise in Short Term Rentals (STR) across Canada and around the world. As a result of an approved motion (see below), Town of Grimsby Staff are facilitating public discussion with the intent of collecting feedback and investigating the possibilities of implementing a short term rental licensing program in the Town of Grimsby. With feedback from stakeholders and the community, Staff will work to create recommendations for Council to consider and determine the potential of a licensing program and STR By-law in the near future.

A STR licensing program protects the health and safety of people residing in residential properties, minimizes potential impacts to surrounding neighbourhoods, and protects the residential character of areas. In addition, a STR licensing program can attract tourism and investments while also increasing revenue to local businesses. It also provides a wider range of accommodation options for visitors.

We want to hear from you! We invite the public to share any initial questions and feedback using the forum below.

An Open House was held on June 20, 2024 and a livestream of the presentation is available on Youtube. A survey will launch in August.

Background

Presently, Bed and Breakfasts are permitted for certain properties in the Town of Grimsby Zoning By-law, but do not require inspections or licenses from the Town of Grimsby. STRs are not permitted in the Town of Grimsby. Municipal Law Enforcement Officers act on a complaint-basis only, and respond to reported issues such as parking infractions, excessive noise, and safety concerns.

Project Scope

On December 4, 2023, Town Council approved the following motion that defines the project scope:

"Whereas implementing a short term rental tax or licensing system within our municipality can aim to enhance both the regulatory framework for short-term rentals and the promotion of tourism.

Whereas such a system could ensure compliance with local regulations and contribute to the municipality's revenue stream.

Whereas revenue generated from this initiative can be allocated towards establishing a pilot project fund designated for legal representation for local tenants. This fund would be dedicated to providing legal representation and support services to local tenants facing housing-related legal challenges. The provision of legal aid for tenants will contribute to a more equitable and fair housing environment within our community.

Therefore be it resolved that staff conduct a comprehensive study on the potential implementation of a short term rental tax or licensing system and the establishment of the pilot project fund. The study should encompass an analysis of similar initiatives in other municipalities, potential revenue projections, administrative requirements, and the feasibility of allocating a portion of the revenue for tenant legal representation."

Your feedback is important! On the right hand side of the page you will find the project lifecycle and FAQ section that contain additional information. You can enter your email in the subscribe box to receive occasional email updates about project milestones.

Below, please share any initial questions or feedback.

Latest Update

On Monday October 21st, 2024, Council ratified report BYL-24-06 which was presented at the Corporate Services Standing Committee on October 7th, 2024. The report outlined all of the findings from the internal project team, concerns related to a Short Term Rental By-law and licensing program, and options for the Committee and Council.

With report BYL-24-06 being received for information, the Town of Grimsby is not moving forward with a Short Term Rental By-law and licensing program.

Summary

Online platforms have led to a rise in Short Term Rentals (STR) across Canada and around the world. As a result of an approved motion (see below), Town of Grimsby Staff are facilitating public discussion with the intent of collecting feedback and investigating the possibilities of implementing a short term rental licensing program in the Town of Grimsby. With feedback from stakeholders and the community, Staff will work to create recommendations for Council to consider and determine the potential of a licensing program and STR By-law in the near future.

A STR licensing program protects the health and safety of people residing in residential properties, minimizes potential impacts to surrounding neighbourhoods, and protects the residential character of areas. In addition, a STR licensing program can attract tourism and investments while also increasing revenue to local businesses. It also provides a wider range of accommodation options for visitors.

We want to hear from you! We invite the public to share any initial questions and feedback using the forum below.

An Open House was held on June 20, 2024 and a livestream of the presentation is available on Youtube. A survey will launch in August.

Background

Presently, Bed and Breakfasts are permitted for certain properties in the Town of Grimsby Zoning By-law, but do not require inspections or licenses from the Town of Grimsby. STRs are not permitted in the Town of Grimsby. Municipal Law Enforcement Officers act on a complaint-basis only, and respond to reported issues such as parking infractions, excessive noise, and safety concerns.

Project Scope

On December 4, 2023, Town Council approved the following motion that defines the project scope:

"Whereas implementing a short term rental tax or licensing system within our municipality can aim to enhance both the regulatory framework for short-term rentals and the promotion of tourism.

Whereas such a system could ensure compliance with local regulations and contribute to the municipality's revenue stream.

Whereas revenue generated from this initiative can be allocated towards establishing a pilot project fund designated for legal representation for local tenants. This fund would be dedicated to providing legal representation and support services to local tenants facing housing-related legal challenges. The provision of legal aid for tenants will contribute to a more equitable and fair housing environment within our community.

Therefore be it resolved that staff conduct a comprehensive study on the potential implementation of a short term rental tax or licensing system and the establishment of the pilot project fund. The study should encompass an analysis of similar initiatives in other municipalities, potential revenue projections, administrative requirements, and the feasibility of allocating a portion of the revenue for tenant legal representation."

Your feedback is important! On the right hand side of the page you will find the project lifecycle and FAQ section that contain additional information. You can enter your email in the subscribe box to receive occasional email updates about project milestones.

Below, please share any initial questions or feedback.

  • CLOSED: This survey has concluded.

    Short Term Rentals

    Thank you for taking a few moments to fill out this survey and share your thoughts on the proposed Short Term Rentals (STR) By-law and licensing program in the Town of Grimsby.

    Short Term Rentals (STR) as it pertains to this survey refers to a rental operated out of an entire Dwelling Unit, including related lands and buildings that provides rental accommodations for a period not exceeding 28 consecutive days. A Bed and Breakfasts (B&B) rents beds or rooms for a period not exceeding 28 consecutive days, with breakfast provided. The property owner/long term tenant lives on site of a Bed and Breakfast establishment.

    While a lot of people use the term “Airbnb” for a short term rental, websites like Airbnb and VRBO are advertising platforms for Short Term Rentals and Bed and Breakfasts. Any property that is used as a rental for less than 28 days is considered a Short Term Rental or Bed and Breakfast (if breakfast is served), regardless of where it is advertised. Please see the FAQ section for more details. 

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Page last updated: 23 Oct 2024, 02:24 PM