Airbnb and short-term rental policies could change in Pickering

Like many other peer municipalities, Pickering is looking into regulating the short-term rental market, which could mean some changes are in store for popular platforms such as Airbnb and VRBO. 

Recently, the city announced that it’s exploring options and is soliciting feedback from residents, businesses and people who own and use short-term rentals. 

According to a post on the city’s website, the municipality is considering implementing a licensing program that it says will address a number of concerns, including noise, garbage, parking, safety and neighbourhood relations. The move to license short-term rentals, which refer to properties–often in private homes–that are rented out to tourists and other visitors for vacations or temporary stays, is not uncommon.

Cities such as Mississauga have already implemented licensing programs for short-term rentals, with owners required to register with the city, apply for a license and provide proof that the property is the owner’s permanent residence. 

Brampton also regulates short-term rentals.

“The city’s goal is to balance support for local tourism, housing, and the ability for property owners to rent their residential spaces, with the need to address common community concerns sometimes associated with short-term rentals,” the city said on its website. 

As for what the licensing program might look like, the city says the framework would be constructed following a review process and would require a code of conduct attestation, on-site or prompt management, and the revocation or suspension of licenses, among other enforcement tools.

Discussions around regulating short-term rentals have been occurring as part of Pickering’s plans to review and consolidate its six zoning bylaws into one consolidated document.

Council will evaluate the document this fall. 

Public consultation on the regulation will be open from Aug. 7 to 31.