Is Airbnb legal in Edmonton?

Airbnb Regulations in Edmonton, Alberta (2023)

As of 2023, Edmonton has implemented specific regulations for short-term rental providers, aimed at ensuring compliance and safety in the rapidly growing sharing economy. Here’s a concise overview of the key regulations and requirements for Airbnb hosts operating in Edmonton:

Licensing Requirements

1. Short-Term Residential Rental Accommodation License: All hosts must obtain this license from the City of Edmonton to legally rent out their property for short-term stays (less than 30 days).

2. Municipal Business License: In addition to the short-term rental license, hosts need to maintain a valid business license that gets renewed regularly.

3. Display of License Number: Hosts are required to display their business license number in all rental property advertisements, ensuring transparency.

Operational Guidelines

1. Approved Operational Plans: Hosts must submit an Operational Plan at the time of their business license application and adhere to it. Any alterations need to be revised and resubmitted for city approval.

2. Guest Information: It’s mandatory for hosts to provide guests with a guide that outlines important information regarding local regulations and the property.

3. Visible Contact Information: Hosts must ensure that their contact information is clearly visible in the rental property.

4. Restricted Property Use: Rental properties cannot be used for unlicensed business activities.

5. Rental Unit Limits: If a host resides in the property during rental, they can rent out a maximum of two sleeping units, each accommodating two people. Exceeding this limit requires additional permits.

6. Safety Standards: Properties must comply with local Building and Fire Codes, including having smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, and clear fire exits.

Community Responsibility and Compliance

Hosts are encouraged to maintain good relations with neighbors by adhering to noise regulations and other community standards. They also need to be mindful of the potential impacts of short-term rentals on local communities and behave responsibly.

Taxes and Additional Fees

• Alberta Tourism Levy: A mandatory 4% tourism levy is imposed on the total accommodation charge. Hosts are responsible for collecting, reporting, and remitting this levy to the provincial government.

Best Practices for Hosts

• Effective Communication: Clear instructions regarding house rules and community standards should be provided to guests before their arrival.
• Personal Engagement: Hosts should welcome their guests personally and maintain communication throughout their stay.
• Proactive Response: Timely responses to guest inquiries or concerns are essential for a satisfactory hosting experience and ensure compliance.

Staying Updated and Compliant

Hosts are encouraged to frequently check for updates on regulations through the City of Edmonton's website and consider working with professional property management services for legal compliance and operational efficiency.

By following these guidelines and practicing responsible hosting, individuals can ensure a compliant and rewarding experience while participating in Edmonton's vibrant short-term rental market.