Short-Term Rental Accommodation (STRA) Licensing

The Municipality of Kincardine investigated the implementation of Short-Term Rental Accommodation (STRA) licensing and a Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT).

On September 10, 2025 Council directed staff to:

  • Move forward and bring back the process, draft by-law and recommended option to administer STRA Licensing on a cost recovery basis.
  • Bring back the process, draft by-law and recommended option to administer the MAT.

In November 2025, Council received a draft bylaw and licensing framework. Council directed staff to revise the bylaw to include at least a two-tiered system. This has delayed the implementation of the STRA which was scheduled to launch in January 2026.   

On February 25, 2026, Council reviewed the tiered bylaw and chose not to move forward with implementing short‑term licensing at this time.

For more information contact Lorie Fioze, Manager of Strategic Initiatives by e-mail or at 519-396-3468.

A Short-Term Rental Accommodation (STRA) is a dwelling unit that is used to provide sleeping accommodation for any period of less than 28 consecutive days and is operated by the owner of the property.

This includes properties like:

  • Homes, cottages, or cabins
  • Apartments or condos

Short-Term Accommodation Licensing: 

  • Ensures that short-term rentals are operated in a safe and legal manner.
  • Helps the Municipality understand the housing supply dedicated to short-term rentals, which is believed to remove supply from the housing market.
  • Ensures that rentals located within neighbourhoods do not adversely impact neighbouring property owners.
  • Ensures occupants that accommodations comply with the Ontario Building Code.
  • Levels the playing field with hotels and motels by ensuring all operators, including short-term rental hosts, are subject to the same regulations, taxes, and safety standards. This creates a more equitable, competitive environment.

Municipalities implement both STRA licensing and a MAT to help manage the impact of short-term rentals on local communities. While the licensing ensures that STRAs are operating safely, the MAT ensures they are contributing to the local economy. Together, both of these tools create a more balanced and sustainable approach to short-term rentals.

Read more about the Municipal Accommodation Tax.

Contact Us

The Municipality of Kincardine
1475 Concession 5, R.R.
#5, Kincardine, ON N2Z 2X6
Phone: 519-396-3468
F.: 519-396-8288

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