The City of St. Catharines is committed to making our community a welcoming and inviting place for visitors. However, we remain committed to balancing the needs of visitors with the safety and comfort of residents as it pertains to short-term rentals.
What is a short-term rental?
Short-term rental properties (such as those offered through booking applications like Vrbo and Airbnb) are permitted in residential areas under the City's Zoning By-law, provided they aren't the primary use of the property. The property must operate first and foremost as a full-time residence, with the resident temporarily renting out the entire dwelling unit on an occasional basis. The property cannot function solely as a STR.
Starting in 2022, short-term rentals must obtain a licence to operate.
Requirements for permitted STRs under the Zoning By-law:
- Defined as a home based business
- The unit is rented for a period not exceeding 28 consecutive days
- STR is the primary residence of the operator (owner / tenant)
- Can operate out of any residence, but must be secondary use of the property as a home-based business
- Provision of one parking space per bedroom
- The entire dwelling unit is rented (operations where the operator stays and hosts guests in their unit are covered under by-laws related to the operation of a bed and breakfast)
Report an issue or concern
Having an issue with short term rentals? The City is here to help. Learn about the possible ways we can support and resolve your concerns.
Unlicensed short-term rental in your neighbourhood?
If you believe there is a property in your neighbourhood that is operating as a short-term rental without a proper license, please report it to the City.
For a more immediate response please call our Short-term Rental Hotline at 905.688.5601 ext. 1787 (1STR).
We will answer calls until 5 p.m. After 5 p.m., a voicemail can be left for a By-law Enforcement Officer to follow up on. Enhanced By-law Enforcement service delivery hours will be provided from Victoria Day to Labour Day, in addition to normal working hours:
- Monday through Wednesday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Thursday through Sunday from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
For less immediate concerns you can complete our Report an Issue Form.
Our staff will follow up with an investigation and take the appropriate actions to resolve the issue.
Noise complaints or excessive partying
If you would like to report a noise complaint or excessive partying, please call the Niagara Regional Police Service at 905.688.4111 to address the issue immediately.
Parking issues
If you have any parking issues from a short-term rental that has multiple visitors, call 905.688.5600 to reach the City parking enforcement during these times:
- Monday to Friday - 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
- Saturday - 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Sunday - 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
View our parking by-law for more information.