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With summer quickly approaching, Port Colborne staff are wanting to make sure both owners and renters of short-term rentals are aware of their responsibilities to help maintain a vibrant community.

Classified as dwelling units of various sizes that are rented for a term of less than 28 days, short-term rentals are increasing in popularity due the community’s proximity to the waterfront. Here are the top five things renters and owners need to know about short-term rentals, such as bed & breakfasts, cottages, hotels, and motels, in Port Colborne:

  1. Noise. Most complaints the city receives are regarding music being played at an excessive volume.
  2. Parking. Take the time to learn about parking options before visiting the city. Some common violations are prohibited parking marked by signage, parking in a tow away zone, and parking over the time limit.
  3. Open Air Burning. Campfires are allowed, provided safety precautions are taken. Renters are asked to burn responsibly and be considerate of neighbouring properties by managing smoke, fire size, and containment.
  4. Lot Maintenance. Ensure the property is outfitted with proper storage for visitors to place their garbage. Garbage cannot accumulate for longer than 10 days. To learn more about waste pick-up dates and limits for Port Colborne, visit www.niagararegion.ca/waste.
  5. Fireworks. Consumer fireworks are permitted on approved dates. Fireworks handlers must be 18 years of age or older, respect safety precautions, and complete the show by 11 p.m.

The City is asking short-term rental owners to register their properties with the city to assist with communication outreach to ensure a positive experience for owners, renters, and the community at large.

 “Our proximity to the water is making Port Colborne a popular destination for tourism, resulting in an increase in short-term rentals and visitors to our community,” said Scott Luey, CAO. “Our goal is to make sure our residents, visitors, and businesses have a positive experience with short-term rentals, and we believe the first step is through communication.”

To learn more about short-term rentals in Port Colborne, including how to register a property, visit www.portcolborne.ca/STR, email licensing@portcolborne.ca, or call 905-835-2900 x121.