Council decides to permit short-term rentals, with regulations to be put in place early next year.
The City of Welland has decided to allow short-term rentals.
A short-term rental is defined as a dwelling that is rented for 28 days or less, but doesn't include a bed and breakfast, hotel/motel or boarding or lodging house.
On Tuesday, council approved an amendment to the Zoning By-law permitting short-term rental accommodations as a secondary use in industrial, residential and agricultural zones, as well as residential dwellings in commercial zones.
Currently, short-term rentals aren't allowed in Welland, though bed and breakfasts, as well as accessory apartments are permitted.
"We know that short-term rentals already exist in the City," said CAO Steve Zorbas. "What we're able to do now is regulate them and ensure that anyone who operates a short-term rental understands that they have a responsibility to ensure there are no negative impacts on those living next door."
The amendment proposes that short-term rentals have three or less guest bedrooms, be subject to licensing and not display external advertising on the site.
A licensing fee of $1,029.50 has been set, with a yearly renewal fee of $75.
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