The Township of Muskoka Lakes is debating new rules that govern short-term rental accommodations(STRA), addressing concerns related to rental property management and community impact in the face of a notable apprehension among some rental property owners.
If approved, the stricter guidelines would require STRA owners to:
- Apply for a licence to operate;
- Set the minimum number of rented nights during the peak season to seven and three nights during the rest of the year;
- Limit the number of renters to two per bedroom.
Under the proposed changes, the STRA needs to be owner-occupied for 50% of the peak season, and 50% of the year overall.
Violators would be subject to demerit points. A total of 15 demerit points would mean a licence suspension.
The bylaw proposes a licensing application fee of $1,000 for 24 months and a $500 inspection fee if deemed necessary.
Jayne McCaw, president of Jayne’s Luxury Rentals, expressed support for responsible rental management and noted reservations regarding the proposed licensing system, calling it “overly complicated and expensive” and warning it could negatively affect the local economy.
Former Muskoka Lakes mayor Phil Harding took to social media earlier this month about the proposed bylaw, noting the $100,000 fine for failing to get a licence to operate, adding that if unpaid, that fine would be added to the individual’s tax bill.
Harding continued, “There are thousands of good renters, and this bylaw may present unintended problems that affect all properties,” he said. “There’s a lot of good in this bylaw, but there are also other options to control short-term rentals that won’t potentially negatively impact all properties.”
The proposed changes aim to address concerns related to the impact of short-term rentals on the community, including noise disturbances, property maintenance, and neighbourhood character. The Township of Muskoka Lakes invites feedback from residents and stakeholders as it considers the new measures.