The Township of Lake of Bays has released a Draft Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) By-law for public review and comment via a survey and public meeting. This important step brings the Township closer to implementing a MAT program, which aims to support and grow local tourism initiatives such as area promotion, trail system improvements, and the expansion of local events, among others.
Key points of the draft By-law include:
- A proposed tax rate of 4% on overnight accommodations lasting 30 days or less
- Applies to motels, resorts, B&Bs, and short-term rentals
- Exemptions for campsites, shelters, hospitals, long-term care homes, educational institutions and accommodation provided by employers to their employees
- Paid by visitors, not accommodation providers
- Providers are responsible for collecting the tax with a quarterly remittance to the Township
- To take effect on January 1, 2025, with the first remittance due by April 30, 2025
- Consistency with MAT programs in other Ontario tourism destinations
- Estimated annual revenue could range from $750,000 to $1.5 million, supporting tourism development, promotion in the region, and other municipal initiatives.
The Township’s Draft MAT By-law survey is now open where the public is encouraged to submit feedback by October 18th, 2024. Additionally, a public meeting has been scheduled for Tuesday, November 12, 2024, where Council will consider the draft by-law, and receive further feedback from residents, stakeholders, and accommodation providers wishing to speak to Council on the topic through a delegation.
The survey, draft by-law, and further information is available on the Township’s website at lakeofbays.on.ca/MAT.