Owen Sound city hall. (photo by Claire McCormack)
The City of Owen Sound has approved several updates to its Short-Term Rental Licensing By-law aimed at encouraging tourism growth in the downtown core while protecting residential communities.
Among the changes, the city has increased the maximum number of rental nights for private residence short-term rentals from 180 to 240 nights per calendar year. Officials say the change will allow operators to accommodate more visitors throughout the year.
Council has also approved a new Commercial STR Licence category, known as C1, for residences located in the downtown commercial zone that are not the owner’s primary residence. There is no maximum number of rental nights for that category.
The city has also launched a new online application form, allowing owners and applicants to submit licensing forms and supporting documents through the municipal website. Application fees can still be paid in person at City Hall or by mail.
In a community safety measure, the city says operator and visitor information packages will now include human trafficking awareness resources. The initiative is being done in partnership with Grey and Bruce counties and the Owen Sound Police Service.
The city reminds residents that all short-term rentals operating in Owen Sound must be licensed.
Licence fees are $500 for private residence short-term rentals and bed-and-breakfasts, and $750 for commercial short-term rentals. Licences are valid for one year from the date of approval.