Beginning January 1, 2025 the Township’s new Short-Term Rental Accommodations Licensing By-law will come into effect. All new and existing short-term rental operators will require a license to operate their STRA legally in Muskoka Lakes.
“It is Council’s hope that the Short Term Rental Accommodation Licensing Program will help to maintain community character while also ensuring rental properties protect the environment and are safe for occupants,” said Mayor Peter Kelley. “We anticipate that with implementation of this by-law we will see a decrease in the number of community concerns.”
The STRA By-law will also help to ensure that properties operating as short-term rental accommodations are compliant with all by-laws and applicable regulations, while also assisting municipal law enforcement officers in remediating concerns.
All property owners operating a short-term rental accommodation will be required to obtain a license with the Township on an annual basis regardless of how long the operation has been in existence.
The Township will be hosting a virtual webinar to share information about the licensing program and how to obtain a license on December 10, 2024 at 10:00 am. To register, please visit Event Brite.
The Township will begin accepting applications for short-term rental accommodation licenses in early 2025. An additional update will be provided at that time.
