Short Term Rental Accommodations Survey

Since Council first considered Short Term Rental accommodations in 2016, the number of short term rental properties in Muskoka Lakes has grown steadily, reaching nearly 1,000 listings as of early 2023. With this growth, Council and staff increasingly hear concerns from landowners about noise, servicing capacity, parking, commercial operations in residential zones and other impacts.  In considering how to best address these issues and impacts on neighbours, the character of the neighbourhood and the broader community, Council has directed staff to explore the merits of creating a licensing registry system for Short Term Rental accommodations.  No decisions have been made at this point.  

While an extensive amount of research and work has already taken place on how to address the issues relating to Short Term Rental properties in Muskoka Lakes, to ensure any potential future regulations achieve the objectives of protecting the environment and maintaining community character and quality of life for its residents; the Township is now seeking public input on what a Short Term Rental Licensing By-Law and licensing program could look like.

If you are interested in providing your feedback, we would appreciate your thoughts on the following questions.