At this Statutory Public Meeting, Council hears representations from the public in regards to the merits and concerns related to the proposed addition of new zoning by-law regulations related to the provision of Short Term Rentals (STR) Council does not make a decision at this time.
Some highlights of the report are here below, find the entire agenda at the following link:
STRs are currently not recognized in the Town’s Zoning Bylaw, Bylaw 1037
General Comments from Survey:
• STRs are necessary for the local economy because there is a large lack of hotel accommodations
in the area. STRs are a benefit to the tourism industry. Regulating STRs to certain areas
diminishes the ability to establish unique opportunities
• Poorly managed/unsupervised STRs can adversely impact the quality of life for people in the
community. They are commercial businesses established in residential neighbourhoods.
• The Town should consider the impact on the community and property owners. There should be
a limit on STR licenses granted per street or neighbourhood
• Bylaw Enforcement and a licensing system are necessary to ensure operators of STRs are held
accountable
• All types of STRs should be regulated
For Discussion Council to direct:
What will constitute a short term rental
• Dwelling
• Dwelling unit
• Water craft
• Cabins in campgrounds
• Other structures (ie treehouses)
For Discussion Council to direct:
Where to permit STR
• Residential Districts
• Commercial Districts
• Agricultural Districts
• Green Districts
• Colchester Harbour
For Discussion Council to discuss:
• If a numerical limit on STRs be established
• If an STR should be owner occupied
Next Steps:
- Summer 2021: Draft Zoning recommendations to be presented for Council’s consideration
- Fall 2021: Draft Licensing By-law Framework to be presented to Council for consideration
- January 1, 2022: Licensing By-law to take effect
