Innisfil, Ontario – The Town of Innisfil will host a virtual public meeting on Wednesday, November 17, 2021 at 6:30 p.m. to present a draft proposal for a new licensing program for short-term accommodations (STAs) in Innisfil. The community is invited to learn more about the program and share their ideas and views with members of Council and Town staff on how short-term accommodations (such as Airbnb’s) can best be managed in the Town of Innisfil.

“Vacation rentals have a long history in Innisfil and, for the most part, operate in harmony with our community,” noted Innisfil Mayor Lynn Dollin. “However, the rapid rise in short-term accommodations has brought some neighbourhood impacts. We’re interested in hearing from residents about what options they think are suitable to best help the Town reduce the impact on surrounding neighbourhoods, so that our communities remain safe and peaceful places to live.”

The draft licensing by-law includes:

  • Inspection and annual license renewals for all STAs (except those at Friday Harbour)
  • 4% Municipal Accommodation Tax for all STAs
  • Ownership restrictions (1 STA at principal residence and/or 1 STA at waterfront cottage)
  • Occupancy restrictions (max. of 2 people per bedroom, up to 16 people per night)
  • Rental restrictions (up to 180 nights/year at principal residence; up to 90 nights/year at waterfront cottage)
  • Fines and a demerit point system

Residents are encouraged to join Innisfil Town Council and staff for the virtual public meeting which will be livestreamed on the Town’s YouTube channel. The meeting will include a staff presentation followed by the opportunity for citizens to ask questions and present their ideas.

To learn more and to register to participate at the meeting, please visit Get Involved Innisfil or call Customer Service at 705-436-3710.