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). 

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 

Community Consultation: What We Heard 

In 2023, the Township conducted community consultation on Short Term Accomodations through a community survey, workshops, and a working group that included STA Operators, business owners, and residents.

Engagement Summary

The community engagement on Short-Term Accommodations (STAs) in Georgian Bluffs has led to a comprehensive review and proposal for managing STAs. Here’s a summary of the engagement results and key points from the report:

1. High Community Engagement: The engagement process witnessed one of the highest participation levels, indicating strong community interest in STAs. The collaboration involved various stakeholders including STA operators, residents, and local businesses.

2. Community Feedback:

   • Residents: Expressed concerns about noise, loss of community feel, and the impact of STAs on residential neighborhoods. They advocated for stricter regulations on STAs, including licensing, noise control, and occupancy limits.
   • STA Operators: Highlighted the economic benefits of STAs, suggesting that they support local businesses by attracting tourists. Operators were generally opposed to the implementation of a Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT), fearing it might deter their operations.
   • Tourists: Feedback indicated that tourists appreciate the diversity of accommodation options in Georgian Bluffs, which enhances their travel experience and contributes economically to the region.

3. Survey Insights: The engagement utilized surveys, in-person consultations, and digital feedback mechanisms, gathering 563 responses that showed:

   • A mix of property owners, STA operators, and tourists participated, with many residents noting disruptions caused by STAs.
   • The majority of community members recognized the economic importance of tourism, supported by STAs, yet voiced significant concerns over community disruption and the need for regulation.

4. Proposed Regulations: Based on the feedback, the township is not recommending the implementation of a MAT at this time, considering it ineffective in addressing the primary concerns. Instead, the focus is on regulatory measures such as noise monitoring, occupancy limits, and a robust licensing framework to ensure that STAs contribute positively to the community without detracting from the quality of life.

5. Next Steps: The township plans to develop bylaws and a registration program for STAs, aiming for implementation by April 1st, 2024. This includes the installation of noise monitoring devices at STA properties and a structured appeal process for bylaw offenses.

Resources

• Community Engagement Results Presentation
• STA Survey Results

• 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!