Rules for short-term rentals in Clearview Township are coming in the fall.
This, after more than 60% of more than 200 respondents to a survey conducted in the spring by the township supported a licensing program.
In 2023 it was recommended that the township ease rules that have banned short-term rentals as part of an overall strategy to attract visitors to the region.
The township’s director of legislative services Sasha Helmkay said she was “very pleased” with the response.
Comments centred on noise and property standards, housing stock, permanent residents versus transient guests, the impact on municipal resources, licensing and inspection requirements, and the introduction of a municipal accommodation tax, she said.
Municipal staff will draft a bylaw that will be released in the fall for council and the public’s review.
Here are 5 comments from the survey
- “We support short term rentals that are in the owner’s home so issues can be dealt with on the spot. Problems arise when one owner buys multiple homes to run a large (short-term rental) business. Suddenly a residential area becomes a commercial area.”
- “Enforcement is challenging over a large area such as Clearview, leading to abuse and noncompliance as well as increased township costs. Fees likely will fall short of demand for enforcement resources.”
- “Clearview is a true four-season destination, attracting both tourists and strong local spending year-round. Most hotels in the area are not particularly family-friendly, while short-term rentals offer a more welcoming option for families and visitors.”
- “We are interested in using a portion of our property as a (short-term rental). We would be interested in understanding what the requirements/qualifications would be to do so. We see the demand for (short-term rentals) in the area and know that it is occurring. We certainly feel (short-term rentals) will bring more tourism and revenue to the area.”
- “Advantage would be if implemented well it could ensure that ST rentals attracted the type of visitors and guests that are beneficial to the township (supporting agri-tourism and local businesses).”