Can I run an Airbnb here? Do I need a licence?
In the Township of Severn, Ontario, short-term rentals rules are set by By-law No. 2026-48 — A By-law to Licence, Regulate and Govern Short-Term Rentals within the Township of Severn, verified 2026-09-21. A licence is required. Zones allowed: anywhere within the geographic limits of the Township of Severn.
| licence required | yes | s. 3.1 |
| zones allowed | anywhere within the geographic limits of the Township of Severn | s. 3.1 |
By-law 2026-48 requires a Township-wide licence to operate any short-term rental (stays ≤28 days, excludes B&Bs). Applicant must be the owner/agent; licence number must appear on ads; renter code of conduct required. Occupancy capped at 2 persons/bedroom (max 10) overnight. In force Jan 1, 2027; fee set by separate fees by-law.
Staff report presenting Council with options for regulating short-term rentals, from continuing existing 'Good Neighbour' by-laws (noise/burning) plus an AMPS penalty system, to adopting a licensing regime. Council's direction from this report led to By-law 2026-48.
Township page confirming the STR Licensing By-law was approved June 24, 2026 Special Council meeting; licensing launches January 1, 2027; application form and program guide expected late fall 2026. Current Noise, Fireworks, Open-Air Burning, Parking and Zoning by-laws apply until then.