The Town of Essex has launched a dedicated short-term rental unit hotline for reporting all short-term rental unit-related concerns, including parking, noise, fire, and licensing infractions.
As of January 1st, 2023, owners of Short-Term Rental Units must have a valid license under bylaw 2025 to advertise or operate in the Town of Essex. Enforcement is now in effect and may result in monetary penalties.
Since short-term rental units are often found in residential neighbourhoods, the Town of Essex has adopted a zoning regulation and licensing system to ensure operators comply with municipal bylaws and maintain the character of neighbourhoods.
All persons seeking to operate a short-term rental unit in the Town of Essex must be located in a district, within a building, where short-term rental units are permitted under the Zoning Bylaw. All short-term rental units must also obtain a licence from the Town of Essex to operate within the jurisdiction.
Application for licensing remains open, and information can be found at www.essex.ca/STRS.