Clearview considers regulating short-term rentals
Clearview council has formally started the process of developing a program to license and regulate short-term rentals (STRs). Currently, the township’s Zoning Bylaw prohibits rentals of less than 30 days duration, except in licensed B&Bs and inns, but an online search shows that many STRs are operating in defiance of the bylaw.
In a report to council, clerk Sasha Helmkay-Playter wrote, “The township has no licensing regime in place to regulate short-term rentals. Staff are aware that there are STR accommodations operating in the municipality, but the Zoning Bylaw is not an effective enforcement tool if a complaint is received.”
Township staff has been directed to begin investigating a program that will include public and stakeholder engagement, policy considerations, regulations and provincial legislation, and a review of existing programs established by neighbouring municipalities.
Among the considerations in developing a policy are impact on affordable housing, increased opportunities for tourism, public safety concerns and economic opportunity. There are a variety of tools available to the municipality to regulate STRs including a requirement for licensing and registration of hosts and operators, limiting rentals to principal residences, limiting the maximum number of consecutive days and imposing a maximum number of days per year a property may be rented.
The township will seek input from advocacy coalitions, housing advocates and local residents, community groups, homeowners, landlords, and tourism and recreation related businesses.
The township’s Strategic and Sustainable Tourism Plan released in December 2022 identified a need to increase the capacity of overnight accommodations. A key recommendation of consultant BC Hughes was to regulate and permit short-term accommodations (STAs) saying, “STAs are changing the way people travel, allowing them to ‘live like a local’ and be a part of the destination’s fabric. Unique STAs that exemplify the Clearview brand may be of interest to the affluent couples and families target markets. STAs also provide a way that residents can supplement their income.”
In the township’s 2024-2034 Corporate Strategic Plan, Recreation and Culture was identified as one of the key priorities. To support this priority, it was identified that the township should regulate and permit short-term accommodations.
“This will not be a fast process,” Helmkay-Playter told council. “We want meaningful dialogue with all stakeholders. But we won’t drag our feet.”
The intent is to have the Zoning Bylaw updated and a licensing bylaw in place by the end of 2026, with licensing of short-term rentals commencing in early 2027.
