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Short term rental

The City of Port Colborne is inviting residents, property owners, and business operators to participate in a comprehensive public engagement campaign focused on the regulation of short-term rental accommodations within the community. This initiative follows Council’s direction to gather input on a proposed by-law that would license, regulate, and govern short-term rentals across the city.

The draft by-law, now available for public review, aims to address community concerns such as noise, safety, parking, and neighbourhood impacts, while supporting tourism and economic activity. The goal is to create a balanced approach that protects quality of life for residents and ensures responsible short-term rental operations.

Presentation summarizing the proposed by-law: May 13, 2025 Council meeting

Engagement Opportunities:

To ensure broad and meaningful participation, the City is offering several ways for the public to provide input:

  • Online Survey – Available from May 14 to June 9, 2025. The survey includes multiple-choice and open-ended questions to gather community insight: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PCShortTermRentals
  • Paper Survey – Identical to the online version, available at City Hall, the Vale Health & Wellness Centre, and the Port Colborne Public Library for residents without online access.
  • In-Person Open Houses – Drop-in sessions will be held at the Vale Health & Wellness Centre (Golden Puck Room):
    • Wednesday, June 4, 2025 – 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
    • Thursday, June 5, 2025 – 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
  • Additional Outreach – Staff will also plan an engagement session at Sherkston Shores Sun Retreats, a key area for short-term rental activity.

“We know that short-term rentals are an important part of our local economy, especially during tourism season,” said Chief Administrative Officer Bryan Boles. “But they also come with challenges for neighbourhoods. This engagement process will help us get the balance right by incorporating feedback from those who live, work, and rent in our community.”

All feedback collected will be compiled and presented to Council on July 8, 2025, alongside any proposed revisions to the by-law and supporting zoning and official plan amendments. If approved, the licensing by-law would come into effect November 1, 2025, ahead of the 2026 tourism season.