This is the exact embedded text of the captured official document.
Snapshot 573bbb5eaaec · verified 2026-06-10 ·
original document ·
archived snapshot ·
unofficial consolidation, the official version is held by the municipal clerk.
# Short-term rental licensing
A "Short-Term Rental" means temporary accommodation in all or part of a Dwelling that is provided for thirty (30) consecutive days or less in exchange for payment or service.
This amendment to the Business Licensing By-law was passed by Council on October 24, 2023. The Bylaw came into force and effect December 1, 2023, which means all short-term rental providers will be required to have a licence to operate in Guelph. You can check back here for updates as more information is made available.
* Short-term Rental Application
* Short-term Rental Bylaw
* Business Licensing webpage
On this page
## Frequently asked questions
### 1. Do I have to live in the City of Guelph to have a Short-term Rental?
1. Yes, you must own and reside at your principal residence in the City of Guelph
### 2. Does the Short-term Rental have to be in my own home?
1. No, the Short-term Rental can either be located at your Principal Residence, Principal Additional Residence or your Additional Residence.
### 3. Can I provide another unit on the same property as a Short-term Rental?
1. In most cases you are permitted to use one other dwelling unit as Short-term Rental, but the unit must be legally established and on the same property as your resident address. Therefore, you may be able to have up to two Short-term Rentals registered under your name, at the same address.
### 4. Can I apply for a licence if I am a Corporation?
1. No
### 5. What documentation is required for my application?
1. You will be required to complete the online application and include the following documents:
1. Floor plan
2. Government issued ID
3. Proof of Principal Residence Ownership
4. Proof of Short-term Rental Ownership
5. Proof of General Liability Insurance
6. Criminal records and judicial matters check
7. A copy of your guest information package and Fire Plan
### 6. Can I have a Short-term Rental at a condominium?
1. Yes. In addition to the other supporting documents, you will also be required to provide a letter of permission from the condominium corporation.
### 7. Will my Short-term Rental be inspected?
1. Yes, as part of the application process each Short-term Rental may be subject to inspections by Building, Fire Bylaw, Zoning or other City staff. Additionally, inspections may be required while the Short-term Rental is operating if complaints are received.
### 8. How much are the short-term rental licensing fees?
Licensing Fees are outlined in the User Fee Bylaw
### 9. What happens if I don't apply for a licence, or operate a short-term rental without a licence?
a. Individuals advertising and/or operating a short-term rental in Guelph without a licence may be issued a $615 fine for Operating without a licence.
b. There are several other fines hosts may face should they operate a short-term rental in contravention of City bylaws.
### 10. Are bed and breakfast establishments considered short-term rental?
1. a. No, bed and breakfast establishments are not considered a short-term rental and are licensed under a different category.
### 11. How do I make a complaint about a Short-term Rental?
1. To make a complaint about a Short-term Rental, please contact licensing staff at 519-822-1260 extension 2551 or [email protected].
### 12. Was there public consultation before passing this bylaw?
1. In February 2022, Council directed staff to engage key audiences and the public to develop a short-term rental category and regulations under the City's Business Licence By-law (2009)-18855.
2. An extensive public engagement process began and included the establishment of a short-term rental working group, online public survey, public town halls and open office hours.
3. Consideration of principal and non-principal residence licensing requirements were included in the engagement process and staff presented their final report to Council with recommendations on the regulations of licensing short-term rentals on March 7, 2023. Learn more about the engagement process on haveyoursay.guelph.ca.
## Staff reports
Business Licensing- Short-term Rental Accommodations, 2023-70
## Resources
Municipal Accommodation Tax
## For more information
Licensing
519-822-1260 extension 2551
[email protected]