Since the implementation of Orillia’s Short-term Rental Accommodation Licensing Bylaw on Jan. 1, the city has seen a high level of compliance among operators.
The regulations, designed to balance supporting Orillia’s local tourism industry while ensuring responsible hosting, safe accommodations and the livability of city neighbourhoods, have yielded positive results in a short span of time.
Currently, there are 22 licensed short-term rental locations in Orillia and more are anticipated to register in the next several months. The city has utilized the enforcement provisions in the Short-term Rental Accommodation Licensing By-law, and eight charges have been laid to date in an effort to gain compliance.
Chapter 730 of the City of Orillia Municipal Code – Short-Term Rental Accommodations establishes standards and requirements for short-term rental accommodations including measures such as fire safety regulations, noise control and adequate insurance coverage. The program allows the City to monitor and manage the short-term rental market in Orillia. The licensing ensures compliance and establishes a clear process for addressing issues and complaints using a demerit point system to assist with enforcement.