Short-Term Rentals for Neighbours

In 2024, a maximum of 250 Short-Term Rental Licences can be issued and the maximum has been reached.

 As of January 1, 2025, an amended Short-Term Rental By-Law will be in effect. New applications for Dedicated Short-Term Rentals and Owner Occupied Short-Term Rental will be accepted. The application portal will open on  January 2, 2025. 

New Applications for Short-Term Rental Licences must comply with the new land use zoning regulations.

Please click here to access Short-Term Rental By-Law 102-2024. 

Short Term Rental Application Form

  Short-Term Rental licences are non-transferrable.

Applications will be processed on a first-come, first- serve basis.

Short-Term Rental Application Requirements:

1. Short-Term Rental Information: Full address, number of legal parking spaces, number of bedrooms and if application is for entire dwelling or bedroom rental only.

2. Owner/Corporation Information: Name of owner(s) and full contact information. (Name, mailing address, telephone and cell number and email address).

3. Applicant/Operator Information: Applicant/Operator full contact information (name, mailing address, telephone and cell number and email address).

4. Responsible Local Contact Person: Provide full contact information for the responsible local contact person (Local contact person shall be at the premises within 30 minutes of contact).

5. Additional Questions:

a. Are you aware of any outstanding Fire Orders?

b. Are you aware of any Property Orders?

c. Are you aware of any Building Permits?

d. Have you had any interior renovations in the last 10 years? If yes, what was the nature of the renovations?

6. Document Checklist: 

• Copy of transfer/deed for ownership confirmation
• Proof of insurance for Short-Term Rental use (minimum liability coverage $2M)
• Fire Evacuation Plan
• Owner Consent Form (if applicable)
• Certificate of proof that the well water is safe to drink (if applicable)
• Acknowledgement by the Region of Niagara that the dwelling has a functioning septic system as of the date of the first rental application (if applicable). Region Contact 905-980-6000 ext. 3358.

Short-Term Rental licences are non-transferrable.

 2024 Short-Term Rental Program

Short-Term Rentals for Neighbours

Visitors from all over the world travel to Fort Erie every year to experience Niagara’s hidden gem. In an effort to protect all parties (i.e. renters, operators and neighbours) impacted by Short-Term Rental operations such as Airbnbs in Fort Erie communities, Town Council has set-up regulations to manage the terms and conditions for operating Short-Term Rentals in Fort Erie.

Starting January 1, 2020, all Short-Term Rental owners who operate rentals are required to obtain an operating licence.

Operating a Short-Term Rental without a licence may result in a $1,500 administrative penalty and a two (2) year prohibition on applying for a licence from the date on which the first Penalty Notice is issued. In the event a Short-Term Rental continues to operate without a licence, the administrative penalty will increase to $2,000 for each subsequent infraction and the prohibition can be extended up to five (5) years. A list of registered Short-Term Rental properties is available and is updated regularly.

Demerit Points and Penalties

Fort Erie uses demerit points to help manage properties that receive one or more infractions. Demerit points are given to a Short-Term Rental property owner when they are found in violation of the Town’s Short-Term Rental By-law. The accumulation of points may lead to additional conditions on a property and/or suspension/revocation of a licence.

Contacting By-law Enforcement (905-871-1600, ext. 5216)

We want everyone to enjoy being part of the Fort Erie community. If you are concerned that a Short-Term Rental property might be violating Town bylaws (i.e., noise and nuisance, parking, property standards, fire safety or building violation), please take a minute to review our FAQs or Short-Term Rental By-law to confirm. If confirmed, please call Municipal By-law Enforcement during hours of operation at 905-871-1600, ext. 5216.

Hours of Operation (June 1 to September 30)

Hours of Operation (October 1 to April 30)

If you have concerns about a Short-Term Rental property regarding noise and nuisance or parking outside of regular business hours, please call the non-emergency number for the Niagara Regional Police Services at 905-871-2300. In case of an emergency, always call 911.

FAQs for Neighbours

Q: Where can I find registered Short-Term Rentals in my neighbourhood?
A: A list of registered Short-Term Rentals can be found on the Town's Business Directory. 

Q: What if renters are not following Town by-laws?
A: If you are experiencing renters who are not following by-laws, please call the Town of Fort Erie By-law Enforcement at 905-871-1600, ext. 5216 or use the online submission form.  If your complaint falls outside of office hours, please call the non-emergency number for the Niagara Regional Police at 905-871-2300.

Q: Are renters allowed to put up a tent and/or use a trailer for sleeping accommodations on the Short-term rental property?
A: Renters are not allowed to set up tents or use a trailer for sleeping accommodations on the property.