Niagara-on-the-Lake looks to protect tourists from unlicensed short-term rentals

Niagara-on-the-Lake is looking to protect out-of-town visitors from getting fleeced by unlicensed houses offering themselves up as short-term rentals.

Looking to promote compliance and protect the safety of visitors, the town has created an Administrative Monetary Penalty System (AMPS) for non-parking related offences, meaning By-law Officers are actively enforcing the Town’s Short Term Rental By-law, including the use of unlicensed properties.

So far, under the new AMPS policy, 12 tickets have been issued to Short Term Rental operators.

“The Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake takes the safety of our visitors very seriously,” said Mayor Betty Disero.

“By increasing efforts to ensure properties are licensed and operating in accordance with the provisions of the By-law, we can be assured that both guests and the community are protected.”

The town said that increased enforcement will assist in safeguarding visitors and alleviating concerns from neighbouring properties and community members.

Town CAO Marnie Cluckie said, “Staff is working hard to support both our Short Term Rental operators and their guests, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while staying in Niagara-on-the-Lake.”

They added that residents should be reminded that a new Short-Term Rental Compliance Program was launched in July, with a goal of streamlining the implementation of local rules and regulations for Short Term Rentals.

Anyone who wants to report an issue regarding a Short Term Rental in Niagara-on-the-Lake can 435-787-4357 or 289-210-7226 to speak directly to a Host Compliance operator.