FAQs

A Short-Term Rental (STR) is all or part of a legally established dwelling that operates or offers a place of temporary residence, lodging or occupancy by way of a rental agreement or similar commercial transaction for a period of twenty-eight (28) consecutive nights or less and, includes bed & breakfasts.

The City of Owen Sound licenses STRs through By-law No. 2023-115(External link).

There are 25 licensed STRs in Owen Sound.

The benefits of STRs include, but are not limited to:

• Increased options for visitor and employment related accommodations;
• Additional income for property owners;
• Increased capacity for visitors, especially during peak times which broadly benefits the tourism sector;
• An inviting, home-like atmosphere, similar to traditional bed and breakfasts; and
• Increased Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) revenue.

The drawbacks of STRs, include, but are not limited to:

• Environmental (e.g. exceeding capacity of approved sewage/septic);
• Parking (e.g. inadequate supply at STR);
• Noise complaints;
• Building Code, Fire Code and other safety concerns;
• Housing affordability;
• Housing availability;
• Compatibility with existing neighbourhoods;
• Neighbourhoods with few permanent residents and a lack of sense of community; and
• Competition with existing traditional accommodation providers such as hotels.

Visit the City's website(External link) for STR information.