Yesterday afternoon, the By-law and Planning committee received a draft by-law proposing licencing for short-term rentals in the municipality.
Presenting the draft, municipal clerk, Natalie Bray, described the by-law as “seeking to create a balanced regulatory framework to ensure safety and accountability while supporting responsible short-term practices in Elliot Lake.”
Highlighting some key points in the draft, Bray said that short term rentals:
- Must obtain a valid licence and comply with health and safety standards
- Must limit guest capacity and maintain liability insurance
- Owners must display the relevant information within the rental unit
- Compliance is required with parking, water, septic and waste management regulations
The meeting agenda package included a draft survey intended for public input.
After the by-law is approved by council, staff are proposing a six-month window for operators to satisfy requirements and acquire their licence. Following that period, short-term rental accommodations must be licenced to accept guests.
The by-law department would be responsible for inspections and licencing. And the proposed licence is renewable annually with an annual inspection and fee.
Bray also informed the committee that council may wish to consider whether to limit the number of short-term rentals and “if [council] wanted to limit any particular zones where they’re not allowed.”
The topic will return to the committee before going to council
The committee approved, “that staff be directed to proceed with public consultation … and that staff be directed to report back to the committee at future meeting with an analysis of feedback, any updates to the by-law and a detailed implementation plan.”