Short Term Accommodations

What is a Short Term Accommodation?

The Township of Georgian Bluffs considers a Short-Term Accommodation facility to be any room, group of rooms, or other living or sleeping space for the lodging of occupants, including but not limited to condominiums, bungalows, single-family homes, cottages, cabins as well as campsites that are rented to provide accommodations to a person or persons on a temporary basis. Short-term accommodations do not include hotels, motels, hospitals, long-term care homes, retirement homes, school dormitories (if being rented to students enrolled in educational courses), lodges, boarding/rooming establishments, temporary farm accommodations, group homes or accommodations that are rented for 30 or more consecutive days (and are therefore regulated under the Residential Tenancies Act). 

Community Engagement Survey 

We are inviting the community to participate in a short survey on short term accommodations (STAs) in Georgian Bluffs. Your input is invaluable, regardless of whether you are a visitor, an STA operator, or a community member. This survey provides an opportunity for you to have a direct impact on the future of STAs in Georgian Bluffs. By sharing your thoughts, experiences, and suggestions, you can help shape policies and decisions that will enhance the overall accommodation experience for all.

Your voice matters, and we appreciate your contribution. 

Take the Survey

Short Term Accommodations Working Group

The Township of Georgian Bluffs has formed a Short Term Accommodations (STA) Working Group. This group will provide valuable insight that will shape Council decisions. 

The working group offers a unique opportunity for deeper conversation, discussion, and increased awareness of issues within our community related to Short Term Accommodations. By bringing together individuals with diverse experiences and perspectives, the working group will foster a shared understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with these properties. Participants will have the chance to openly share their own experiences, listen to and appreciate different viewpoints, and contribute to the decision-making process. 

Meetings are expected to take place at least three times between now and the end of 2023. 

The Working Group has selected 9 members randomly from three groups; STA owner/operators, Residents, and Businesses. The following community members have volunteered their time and been selected to be part of the Working Group. The Township extends its thanks to  all members of community that offered their time and expertise to the Group, whether you were selected for the group or not. 

STA Owner Operators

1. Heather Barfoot

2. Juan Marziali

3. No longer participating

Residents

4. Dana Gerald Folkerson

5. Adam Thoburn

6. Ann Dumyn

Business Owners

7. Peter Reid

8. Mass Arezzi 

9. Christine Arezzi 

The Working Group is supported administratively by staff at the Township in the Office of the CAO, Communications and Bylaw staff. 

If any member of community would like to share thoughts for discussions at the Working Group, or add perspectives to the discussion, please email sta@georgianbluffs.ca. All emails sent to this account will be shared with members of the Group. 

The discussions of the Working Group will inform the staff report which is anticipated to be brought before Council in late 2023.

Voluntary STA Registration 

We are pleased to introduce a voluntary registration program for short term accommodation operators in Georgian Bluffs. By registering your STA, you contribute to the responsible and sustainable management of the local accommodation industry. The annual registration fee will be $100, which will be used to support community initiatives and promote tourism in Georgian Bluffs.
Register Now 

• Cleanliness and Sanitization: Prioritize cleanliness by thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting the accommodation between guests.
• Safety Equipment: Equip your accommodation with essential safety equipment, including smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers. Test and maintain these devices regularly to ensure they are properly working.
• Clear Communication: Provide clear and detailed instructions to guests regarding safety protocols, emergency procedures, and any specific guidelines for using amenities or equipment, such as fire pits, pools, etc.
• Security Measures: Implement appropriate security measures to protect guests and their belongings.
• First Aid Kit: Keep a well-stocked first aid kit readily available in the accommodation including basic medical supplies.
• Emergency Contacts: Provide guests with a list of emergency contacts, including local emergency services, nearby medical facilities, and your own contact information.
• Regular Maintenance: Conduct routine maintenance checks to identify and address any safety hazards. Inspect electrical systems, plumbing, and appliances regularly to ensure they are in proper working condition.
• Escape Route: Ensure you have a clearly marked fire escape route. Post a map of the route so it’s easy for guests to see.
• Occupancy Limits: Establish and enforce safe occupancy limits based on area, accommodations and septic system limits.

Here are some suggested rules that Short Term Accommodation Operators are asked to post and enforce with their visitors:

• While you are staying with us, please be mindful of your surroundings and those around you at all times. Whether in a public or private area, please keep noise to a minimum especially during overnight hours.
• No person shall use Fireworks on any occasion except for the following holidays: Victoria Day, Canada Day, Civic holiday, Labour Day and New Years Eve. See the Fireworks By-Law for details on hours and days permitted.
• Please park responsibly, respecting designated parking areas and not blocking driveways or emergency routes.
• Remember to clean up after your pets on the property and off, keep them on leashes where required, and try to prevent excessive noise and disturbances from barking.
• Please clean up any waste or garbage around your area and before leaving any public spaces to allow for everyone to enjoy the views.
• Always check for any local notices or restrictions in place at the time of your visit, such as fire bans.

Thank you for respecting these guidelines and we hope you enjoy your stay!