Blind River council had an in-depth discussion about their new short-term rental accommodation licencing program before passing it into law.
The town’s brick and mortar motel owners and new hotel development had asked for the program to add regulations for other short-term accommodations, such as Air B&Bs and cottagers renting out their properties.
Under this new program, up to 18 of the short-term stay accommodations can purchase licencing to maintain their availability.
Officials say the licensing is designed to safeguard community character, ensure occupants are provided with safe accommodations that comply with Fire Code and Building Code requirements, and ensure such properties are maintained at acceptable standards in accordance with the Property Standards By-Law.
It will be regulated through the bylaw officer and the fees for the initiative have been included in the 2026 budget as additional revenues for the Protective Services department.
The annual fee will be $,1500 for locations without a host, such as an Air B&B, or $650 for hosted locations, such as bed and breakfasts where the resident is in the home.
