Is Airbnb legal in Ottawa?

In Ottawa, Ontario, short-term rentals (STRs) are governed by a specific set of regulations outlined in the Short-Term Rental By-law, which mandates that a permit is required for renting out a principal residence or part of a residential unit for less than 30 consecutive nights. Here are the key aspects of the regulations:

Host and Property Requirements

• Eligibility: Only homeowners can offer short-term rentals in their principal residences. Renters can also host, provided they have permission from their landlord. Condominium and housing co-op residents may rent their units unless specifically prohibited by their corporation's regulations. Rural homeowners can operate "cottage rentals" with a separate permit.
• Permit Cost: The application fee for a short-term rental host permit is $112, valid for two years.

Listing Regulations

• Hosts must list their rentals on platforms that are registered with the City of Ottawa and include their City-issued host permit number on all listings. They must also specify the maximum number of overnight guests allowed.

Host Responsibilities

• Hosts are required to provide guests with essential information on local regulations concerning noise, parking, smoking, and fire safety. They must also maintain accurate and up-to-date contact information.

Property Managers

• Hosts can hire property managers to oversee their STRs. These managers must also register with the City and comply with the same rules as hosts.

Prohibitions

• Landlords, condominium corporations, and housing co-operatives can prohibit short-term rentals within their properties. In such cases, the related permits will not be issued or will be revoked if a prohibition is later established.

Application Process

• Applications can be submitted online or in person at the Business Licensing Centre. Required documents include proof of residence, consent from landlords (if applicable), a floor plan, proof of insurance, and a signed declaration confirming compliance with local laws.

Additional Considerations

• A Municipal Accommodation Tax applies to short-term rentals, which is collected by Airbnb on behalf of the City.

Overall, Ottawa’s regulations aim to create a structured environment for short-term rentals while ensuring compliance with local laws, safety regulations, and community standards. Hosts intending to operate in the city should be thoroughly familiarized with these regulations to avoid penalties and ensure a smooth hosting experience.