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.
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:
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.
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:
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.
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.
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:
View our parking by-law for more information.